matters of the heart

This morning I read a devotional focused on matters of the heart. It’s too often that we overlook the need to work on the motivation of our hearts because we are too busy perfecting what everyone sees. We often get tangled up in working out, studying, having a great family life, moving up the corporate ladder (which are all very important things) but sometimes we neglect our true character which in actuality is the determining factor of our relationship with God. 

"The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). What a blessing this is. I don’t know about you but especially during the Holidays, I am thankful my God starts and finishes with my heart instead of focusing on my waist line or counting how many times I went to the gym. It really makes sense though. Our hearts are our life source. Our life begins with a heartbeat and it ends with one. 

Once we are able to recognize how important the matters of our hearts are, the quicker we will be able to connect our actions with our intentions. This brings up a good point, our actions must also follow our intentions. How can the criminal have good intentions? If you intend to do something than do it. I love that saying that “the road to hell is paved with good intentions”. How often do we “mean to do something else”? How often do our actions reflect what is in our heart and vice versa? We must work on two things: First, let’s work on character. Work on discovering what our values and principles are. Indentify them one by one. What is integrity? What defines YOUR integrity? Second, create a moral identity. Try to align your values and principles with your actions the best you can. This is a daily task. Start with simple things. If honesty is something you believe is part of your moral identity, don’t lie! Don’t tell stories! Don’t gossip! Don’t fib! I know it’s easier said than done for some of us, but it’s step by step – day by day and today is a good day to start! The more we are connected ourselves, the easier it is for others to connect to us. Have a great day.

Peace Kyle.