Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. Proverbs 4:23 (ESV)
Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the heart. Proverbs 21:2 (ESV)
…”For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV)
When the Bible references one’s heart, it is usually referring to the spiritual center of an individual that encompasses their mind, their thoughts, their will, and their focus. So, when asking the above question, I really want us to think about this: where and what is your mind and thoughts, focusing on? What are your true values/intentions in life, when faced with a situation or dealing with others?
In this crazy world, we all inhabit, it is easy to lose focus and behave contrary to God’s Holy Word. Given the current state of events as of late with the various mass shootings here in the US, multiple wars being waged all around the world, and hatred and fighting that seems to never end; it is so important now more than ever, to check in with ourselves and determine our heart’s focus. And as we check in, I would like to encourage all of us to not use others or society as the standard, but to look to God’s Holy Word instead.
God has written throughout His Holy Word how to guard our hearts, meaning our thoughts and our minds against dark and evil ideas. We must daily take conscious inventory of who we are as God’s children, and what our goals and purpose in life should be. When we focus on using the gifts and talents God has given us to impact His world for the better, we will be changing our lives and the lives of those around us. By being willing participants and following God’s lead, collectively we can create a positive impact that will be felt around the world.
We all must realize that being God-centered and God-focused, does not come easy. We are sinful human beings by nature, and if we are not careful, we can fall into all types of temptations and evil vices that will lead us down a dark path. We need to daily practice having our hearts (meaning our minds, our wills) focused on being in line with God’s principles. While He was living on earth, Jesus Christ taught us how to seek God and to focus our hearts and minds on His Holy Word. The Bible teaches us to turn against any evil thoughts and actions. To live and constantly seek an opportunity to love, and to do good to others.
As we go about our lives, may we constantly work on our spiritual heart. May we seek to control our thoughts and guide them so that they will always be subjected to God’s holy principles. As stated in 1 Samuel 16:7, the second part of the verse, God is basically saying He does not judge us based on our outer appearance, He judges our hearts. May we live our lives so that when our Father in Heaven looks at our hearts, He will be proud.
Blessings,
Angélique
To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com
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