Proverbs 4:23, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."
Psalm 119:10-11, "I seek You with all my heart; do not let me stray from Your commands. I have hidden Your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You."
Any Scripture that begins with "above all else," followed by a command, should cause us to pay attention. Today's verse does just that! It clearly instructs us to protect our hearts - the navigation system for our thoughts, actions, and desires. If our hearts beat fast for God, we'll yield godly results. But, if they're saturated with "self," we get what we bargained for - a life devoid of true meaning and joy.
The human heart is prime real estate; it's where Jesus wants to reside. Yet, it's up to us to make our heart His home. By setting our sights on God and seeking Him, we are eliminating the enemy's ability to break in and plunder what isn't his. Pure thoughts and actions are key to unlocking the "safe room" that Christ wants to create in our hearts.
God smiles every time we stop and consider what He thinks before making any consequential decisions. It pleases Him when we show restraint and exhibit self-control. When our priorities align with His Word, we're intentionally and actively guarding our hearts!
So, guard your heart by seeking the wisdom of Scripture to not only deflect the bad but to usher in God's goodness. How great is that!
How are you guarding your heart "above all else?" Do you have a daily spiritual exercise regimen? Consider these questions while meditating on today's verses. Be open to careful examination, confess any sins, and give God the praise and thanks He deserves.
Father God, Thank You for Your patient grace. I realize that I regularly fall short of Your standard of perfection. Therefore, lead me to pursue Your heart's desires above my own. Guide me so I can become a beacon of hope that will lead others to You. Amen.