A Safe Heart

Personal safety is a matter of concern today. Among other things, each night Mister Bill faithfully and routinely checks the doors, making sure they are locked. For sure, we do not live in fear but we aren't oblivious to dangers that exist. In the same regard, how well do we protect our hearts? God says, "Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life." (Proverbs 4:23 AMP). He's pretty clear that the heart needs protection, and our first thought is to protect it from outside influences - and rightly so. However, I suggest there's more to the guardianship of the heart; let's back up a few verses: "My son, pay attention to My words and be willing to learn; open your ears to My sayings. Do not let them escape from your sight; keep them in the center of your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing and health to all their flesh." (Verses 20-22 AMP). The psalmist said, "I have stored up Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against You" (Psalm 119:111 ESV). The children of God must have God's words at the center of their hearts! There is to be a "constancy of heart and purpose, honesty in speech, steadiness of gaze, and a right goal in walk and life" (Amplified Study Bible). Ultimately, it's not just what we lock-out of our hearts - it's also what we lock-in our heart! The practice of watching over our heart includes habits of careful choices - what we read, watch, listen to, who we hang with and conversations we engage in. Trust me, it's something we do faithfully and routinely and one that brings immeasurable rewards. Keep your heart safe!