Mark 7:21-22 For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly.
The above verse is the definition of a “good heart” and a “bad heart”. A heart with good pumping, normal rhythm, clear blood vessels and normal blood pressure is a healthy heart. A spiritually healthy heart is one that is sober and pure—free from envy, ego, and evil desires—and marked by self-control, calmness, and compassion.
The physical heart is not visible to us. Our diet and lifestyle will determine the condition of our heart. Similarly, the meditation of our mind will shape the condition of our spiritual heart. Lying and slander are not emotionally or circumstantially driven; they are a reflection of the condition of the heart. Good thoughts or righteousness is an outcome of a trained and disciplined heart. On the other hand rage, envy and animosity barrages from an undisciplined heart. Hence the meditation of the mind deposits godliness and holiness, or viciousness and vice, in the heart, shaping our character.
Guard your heart from unresolved anger, jealousy and malice. “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23). Our spiritual heart requires constant attention, consistent cleaning and continuous guarding. Everything good, bad or ugly flows from the heart. “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45).
The Thoughts of the Heart:
- Ego: Insecurity that is ignored or entertained grows into ego and selfishness. When we are unable to celebrate others blessed, promoted or appreciated there is a growing ego that must be crushed.
- Envy: Jealousy is a form of fear that others would take what we have, causing uneasiness and coldness. If this is ignored, it will encourage comparison and envy. Envy is a demonic desire to have what others have. Envy is like cancer. If it is not cut out it will corrupt the soul and destroy the spirit.
- Evil: Unholy thoughts of fear, anger or resentment that are repeated and ruminated, in the mind will sink into the heart. The heart is like a storage unit. Ugly thoughts will accumulate all kinds of evil desires.
A disciplined and trained mind guards the heart.
Prayer: Dear Holy Spirit, make me sensitive to unholy and ungodly thoughts. Amen.
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