Reclaimed Life Sample

Proverbs 4:23

Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. 

The heart is the most vital organ that we need to survive. It is the center of the circulatory system from which blood flows, pumping the oxygen-rich blood supply throughout the rest of the body. In the same way, the heart that Proverbs speaks of is vital to our Christian experience. 

This heart is made up of the mind, soul, spirit, and will. The heart is the seat of our entire being, animating all that we are. Because of this, it is vital to guard what we are allowing to get into our hearts, for the issues of life flow from it.  This is easily discovered in our actions; Jesus said in Matthew 15:11, "it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.” Yes, that means everything you do comes from what you allow in your heart.

As any soldier is observant of his surroundings, so must the Christian be. Our enemy is not made of flesh, easily detected, but is a spirit, cunning and always looking for someone to devour. He tries to sow seeds of doubt and unbelief to destroy the believer's view of God. 

Here is the secret. Infiltration is only possible when there is an opportunity to go undetected. The enemy of our souls will always look to get in where we are least vigilant. But we have the upper hand, and the good news is that no weapon formed against us shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). 

Accordingly, no matter what the enemy throws our way, we can overcome it. God has given us provision and a way of escape from every temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13). We must choose to think on those things that are of a good report and those things that are praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8-9).

Action point: Meditate on his word day and night, then you will find good success (Joshua 1:8).

Prayers: Father God please help me to keep a guard over my heart and help me to discern offense, worry, doubt, fear and unbelief that is trying to take root in my heart. Have Your way in my life in Jesus name Amen.