The Bible says; “The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart” (1Samuel 16:7 NIV). As people, we see the outward appearance of man, judgment is often made based on what is seen and perceived. However, the Lord is not as concerned with the outward appearance of a person as He is with the condition of their heart. For it is out of your heart that your words and actions will come forth. “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45 NKJV).
So how then can we keep a pure and right heart before the Lord? There are two main ways to achieve this, through repentance and through positive decision making in your life. The Bible says that every person has “fallen short of the glory of God” and has sinned. Although no person can walk a blameless and perfect life, each individual can strive to walk in a more pure and obedient manner. The first step is repentance, to repent before the Lord Jesus for your sins, and to open your heart to receive Him into your life. Second, is to yield to the Holy Spirit in your life’s decisions. Making positive choices and obeying the Lord in what He calls you to do is vital; these two steps are the basis of your walk with God.
The Bible says; “Do you not understand that everything that goes into the mouth passes into the stomach, and is eliminated? But the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders. These are the things which defile the man; but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile the man” (Matthew 15:17-20 NAS).
Often people are very concerned with their outward appearance; what they look like, how they act, and how others perceive them. They become more concerned with this than what is in their heart. This does not mean that we should not strive to look our best, carry ourselves appropriately, or give a positive impression to others. This does mean though that as we care for our outward presentation, we should also put time and effort into the person we are on the inside as well. Eventually what is inside your heart will come out, whether it is good or bad.
“Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, He was asking His disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; but still others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 16:13-17 NAS).
In this passage of Scripture Peter knew who Jesus was. He knew who He was because God revealed it to him, and his heart was open before the Lord. Therefore, he perceived who Jesus was and saw Him through the eyes of his heart. If Jesus came to you would you know Him? Would you recognize His voice, His Presence, His face? Jesus comes to each of us in unique ways. He speaks to our hearts and reveals Himself to us. It is up to us to walk in purity and obedience and to keep our hearts clear before Him. Repentance and obedience are essential in your walk with God. This day, we encourage you to look up to God, to seek Him in repentance, to receive Him, to open your heart to Him, and allow Him to guide you in your life’s choices. He is there and He will not let you down. You can start by praying this prayer aloud.
Dear Lord Jesus,
I ask that You would forgive me of my sins and wash me clean with Your blood. I open my heart to You Lord Jesus and I ask You to come into my heart, to purify me, and to help me to walk in a more integral manner. I seek You this day, and ask that You would guide me in my choices and decision making in life. I give You my heart and I welcome the Holy Spirit.
In Jesus Mighty Name I Pray,
Amen
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