The human heart is lonely, confused, and rebellious. It is a fountain of pride and self-focus that needs (but aggressively resists) caring and compassionate connection with other hearts. When isolated and unregulated it produces much pain. Jesus said, “Out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.” (Matthew 15:19.)
However, when a human heart experiences open connection with other human hearts, an interior light begins to shine, and inner healing begins. (That’s why support groups are effective. Perhaps churches could be more testimony, confession, and support group than lecture-listening.) The realization that you’re not the only person chained to the pain and fears of self-absorption, is liberating and hope-giving.
The human heart desperately needs to be healed, transformed, and humbly yielded to the presence, power, and authority of “the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” That invisible kingdom begins in human hearts, not in outward rules.
Christ came to fulfill God’s promise to all who fully surrender to Him: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26.) Overcome your hesitation. Fully accept Christ’s invitation. Completely open your heart to His presence, power, and control for the rest of your life.
I love things that touch my heart — movies, music, books, testimonies. If it doesn’t warm my heart, I’m not much interested. Heart-connection occurs the instant when two or more people recognize their deep kinship and commonality as fellow human beings and begin to humbly step out from behind the walls that divide them.
To “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,” isn’t a passive concern. It’s the all-consuming pursuit of a new heart! Now is the time to bring your heart to the living Jesus and to keep it in continual submission and obedience to Him.
Free Gas for Your Think Tank -- Fill Your Mind and Your Heart With Hope 