Our hearts are the root of us. They determine and control much of what we do. Our hearts are what need to be most molded by our Father in heaven. It is in our hearts that the world tries to take hold and control. Things like envy, jealousy, pride, and selfish ambition are what can develop in our hearts. These things will inform our paths and direct our actions. However, we can cultivate other things in our hearts as well. It all starts with gratitude. When we are grateful we can progress our hearts from these dark and deceitful emotions. These things can be transformed into patience, kindness, and love. We must know that God is always searching our intentions. He knows us better than we know ourselves (Romans 8:27). We cannot fake it with Him. Let’s start with gratitude today and everyday, so that our hearts can be transformed for His examination.
“I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.”
Jeremiah 17:10 NIV
God wants to give us a new heart. He wants to put a new spirit in us. The world can turn our hearts cold and make them like stone. It does this through hardship and confusion. We can become hardened to those around us if we let the world infiltrate and imprint on our hearts. It is only with God that we can receive an open and soft heart. This heart is not of the world. This heart is of God. Our heart longs to be guided and directed. We must give it to the one that can be trusted. He will not steer us wrong. Pride will threaten our path. The world will bolster that pride and keep our hearts from God. Gratitude will open the door for God to come in. Continual gratitude will progress us to have our hearts transformed, so that we will be moved to follow His decrees.
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.
Ezekiel 36:26-27 NIV
Considerations for your planner:
- Take a moment to search your heart. Write down the things that might be controlling your desires.
- Does your heart feel hardened? Write down why that might be and begin to ask God to intercede in your heart.
A Story of Transformation:
I have struggled with pride for so long. This struggle has led me to not be the most kind version of myself. Pride in what I do and who I am has led me to gossip about others. I believe I did this because I was trying to make myself more than I was. Ultimately, I know this came from a place of insecurity. Gossip always does.
I have learned that if I am truly at peace with who I am then I would have nothing but encouraging words for and about others. Unfortunately, as I look back, I know that was not the case. My heart envied others and was jealous when they received accolades. I wanted to receive them all and would come up with reasons they did not deserve them.
As God has been working in my heart, through daily time with Him and studying His word, my heart has softened to this reality that once consumed me. I do not want to speak ill of anyone. It just makes me feel rotten inside. I am by no means perfect, but I am more aware. I want to build up and encourage others, because I know how loved and forgiven I am. I want to share my progress with everyone. It is the greatest gift to have my heart transformed toward His ways.
- Anonymous
Strengthen the Christian Planner Family by sharing your experiences. We'd love to hear a story about God's work in your life. Use the form linked below to submit your story.
