“Heart Matters”

Scripture:

Proverbs 27:19
As a face is reflected in water,
so the heart reflects the person. (NLT)

Observation:

As fallen human beings, we are all prone to follow our sinful natures with ease, either without thinking about the consequences or devising a way for our escape. In either case, we will eventually pay a price for our sinful waywardness. It is because of our rebellious nature to sin against God that we have a deceitful heart (Jeremiah 17:9) and thus, must be ever so mindful of what we put into our hearts, for it is in the heart our direction for living begins—be it for God or against God.

Application:

Therefore, if anyone is to successfully change the direction in which this misguided world is leading them, they must first and foremost, look deeply into the condition of their heart, for it is from the heart that our desires flow; it is just the way the Lord designed human beings to be. Because of the sin condition of our hearts it is only through God’s infinite power and wisdom that anyone is able to experience a truly transformed heart and life—one that loves God and is glad to live for Him—the kind of transformation that God desires for everyone (Ezekiel 36:26-27). No matter who we think we are or what we believe our capabilities are, we cannot do this on our own, because the power that sin has over everyone’s heart, mind, and soul is far too strong for our frail human condition to faithfully battle without God’s sovereign help. This fallen world where Satan reigns can only satisfy the sinful desires of your heart, dear friend, desires that are not only temporary at best, but are desires that will continue to draw you farther and farther from the Truth, leading you into a darkness that ends with final condemnation and eternal separation from God and all the goodness He has so carefully planned for those who have a heart of God. Our merciful God graciously calls every heart to change, but He does not force anyone to Himself; unless it is His will to do so. So take it to heart, my friends, do not gamble with the LORD our God. Instead, step up while you can and trust Him to transform the sinful desires of your heart into godly desires that will light a path and guide you into the very Presence of all God’s Glory (Matthew 5:8).

Prayer:

Please renew the spirit in my heart, O LORD, for it is there where my desires come from. Create in me, dear God, a right spirit that thrives on Your goodness. Protect me from the fiery arrows of the Devil that are aimed at piercing my wounded heart. Please create in me clean desires that honor and glorify You.

Amen