Scripture: Matthew 15:10-11, 17-20
Eating with unwashed hands does not defile our bodies. For what defiles a man is our heart, for out of the heart comes evil thoughts. Man always has a propensity toward evil and sin. Thus, we have to regularly seek God thru prayer so that our hearts are aligned with God.
The heart of the matter is a matter of the heart. The key to life is not to follow our heart but God's heart. If you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall.
Why is it imperative to align our hearts?
1. Our hearts is deceitful
The myth from experts is to listen to your heart - it knows your true desires. This is a lie because the heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. We can always find a justification for our actions, that we are tired, that we are deserve a break...which is why we can never break free from sin. Even King David who has been called " a man after God's heart" engaged in adultery.
2. Our hearts are divided
The Pharisees started as being known for their piety and their devotion to God. They knew the Scriptures inside out. However, as time passes, they deviated and set rules more for human than for God.
Ps 86:11 give me an undivided heart
Mt 22:37 love the Lord your God with all your heart
The reason for having a divided heart is because we do not trust God wholly. We can give God our weekends but on Mon-Fri, we cannot give God our career or things deem important for us.
Mt 6:24 no one can serve 2 masters...cannot serve God and money
Having an undivided heart is not a concept, it is a command for action.
Prov 4:23 guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life
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Our hearts are deceitful but God's hearts is faithful
Our hearts are divided but God's heart is for us...