Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
Proverbs 4:23 [KJV]
The book of Proverbs is full of wisdom and teaches us how to live in this world. Out of the heart, our feelings flow, and our desires grow. We make choices based on these desires and spend time on what we enjoy and want to do. Scripture reminds us to be vigilant about these desires and to set boundaries for our affections. It is important that we love people and enjoy the creation God intended for us, but we should align our desires with the instructions we receive from the word of God. Have boundaries over your pleasures and relationships.
The scripture instructs us to be diligent, which means it takes effort and persistence to keep our hearts. It is a choice we have to make every time we are tempted to go overboard with a feeling or desire. Pay attention to your zeal. Is it edifying others and you, or is it damaging your character and identity in Christ? Carelessness can cost you a relationship or character and the purity of your life, or lead you to debt and dryness.
On the other hand, we all go through issues in life. A loss of a dear family member or friend, hurt, rejection or a cold shoulder. With all this, our hearts might feel a bit heavy or even broken. The heart of a believer should be in the shape of a “cross”, willing to endure every pain. Jesus faced this when he traversed the earth. He was rejected in his own hometown, betrayed by Judas, slandered by false priests and much more. Yet, he kept his heart in diligence. Today, we have the freedom that Jesus purchased for us on the cross. He has been all things to all. So, let not these things damage our hearts, but remind us to walk in freedom.
Prayer
Dear God, let our hearts be pure and sacred in our love for you. Give us strength to resist the temptations of this world and help us to keep our hearts diligent. May you lead our lives, so we don’t take detours that lead to sin. Lead us in the path of righteousness, Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.