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Proverbs 4.23 (NIV)
Above all else, guard
your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
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| Out of a heart well kept will flow . . . good products, to the glory of God and the edification of others.* |
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The
word translated here as “heart” is not referring to the seat of emotion but the
center of personality, decision, and understanding. It is often translated
“judgment.” Solomon is advising
us to guard the part of us
that makes us who we are. In Matthew 12.34, Jesus said, “For out of the
overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.” The moral conduct of our lives – actions,
attitude, and purpose – is determined by what we think and believe.
In Philippians 4.8, Paul lists
some practical suggestions for protecting the heart/mind. (I hope you will read and
apply them.) To paraphrase another writer: Protect your mind from vanity; your understanding from error; your
will from perverseness. Keep your
conscience clear of guilt and your affections from being captivated by evil. Train
your mind to think heavenly thoughts. Do not let your heart fall into the hands
of the enemy.*
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| It’s not enough to keep the bad stuff out. We’ve got to let the good stuff in.* |
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