Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.

Proverbs 4:23

As we continue to examine God’s faithful care for and transformation of our hearts, I can’t help but think about how God isn’t the only one interested in our hearts. Sweet friend, the enemy is just as interested in the condition of your heart and my heart as God is. You see, if the enemy can win a foothold in our hearts, then that’s a battle won for darkness. Something that slithering snake would like all too well.

So, how do we make sure that we’re fighting on God’s side of this battle for our hearts?

Let’s look to God’s Word. In Proverbs 4:23, God teaches us through King Solomon that we ought to guard our hearts because our hearts are the wellspring of life.

What’s one way to guard our hearts according to Proverbs?

By avoiding that which is foolish and seeking that which is wise.

Dive into a few proverbs with me.

• “The wise respect and listen to God while fools despise wisdom and instruction.” – Proverbs 1:7

• “A fool cares only about his opinion, but a wise man listens to advice.” – Proverbs 12:15

• “A fool gives vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps control of himself.” – Proverbs 29:11 (also Ecclesiastes 7:9)

• “A fool stirs up conflicts, but a wise man calms a quarrel.” – Proverbs 15:18

• “He that walks with wise men shall become wise, but the companion of fools shall perish.” – Proverbs 13:20

How do we apply wisdom to help guard our hearts?

• Respect God’s divine authority and follow His instruction.
• Be open to God’s teaching and the God-led advice of others.
• Control our emotions and be calm in tense situations.
• Walk closest with Brothers and Sisters who are seeking God’s wisdom too.

Sweet friends, the enemy would love it if we ignored God’s teachings and lived our lives based on our opinions and our feelings.

Why?

Because foolish living leaves our hearts unguarded.

BUT God – God gives us every piece of advice and instruction we need to live wisely, to guard our hearts against the enemy, to ensure that the wellspring of life within us flows freely, sharing God’s love and the light of Christ with others.

In light of God’s truth I pray:

Lord, help us be a people who listen to Your Word. Cause our opinions and offenses to melt away and teach our hearts to take joy in service and humility toward our fellow man. Let us become a people that love and edify one another from the most helpless babe to the men and women in the highest seats of leadership. Bring about in Your people a heart that seeks justice, loves mercy, and walks humbly with You. Let us be the hands and feet of Your love serving one another, sacrificing for one another as Christ did for us. Guard our hearts from the anger and deceitfulness of foolish living. Grace us with Your wisdom and peace all of our days. Amen.