Guard Your Heart!

From the desk of Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Watch over your heart with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life.” These words of wisdom from King Solomon stress the great value of protecting our innermost being. According to the Bible, the heart is the source of our thoughts, attitudes, beliefs, and actions. Therefore, it is crucial to be diligent to “watch over” or guard our hearts! Solomon is emphasizing an attitude of obedience which is marked by “concern for,” and “attentiveness to” our hearts! The heart is a powerful force that drives our actions and influences our thinking and behavior. It can either lead us down a path of righteousness or a path of destruction. Our hearts are susceptible to sinful thoughts, attitudes, and beliefs. Solomon says, “For from it flow the springs of life.” In other words, we must be mindful of what we allow into our hearts because everything we do flows from it. We must be mindful of the things we think about, the things we set our affection on, and the things we give our attention to. Guarding your heart means choosing to focus on godly thoughts (Colossians 3:2; Philippians 4:8), as well as seeking wisdom and guidance from God (Proverbs 4:7; James 1:5). When we guard our hearts, we take responsibility for our mental, psychological, and spiritual well-being. In doing so, we protect ourselves from sinful influences that impede spiritual progress (Hebrews 12:1–3). By guarding our hearts, we become who God designed us to be (Ephesians 2:10). Our hearts have a significant impact on our relationship with God, and the condition of our heart can either draw us closer or push away us away from Him. When we meditate on the Word of God (Psalm 1:2) and allow it to go deep into our hearts, we are transformed and will experience a greater sense of peace, joy, and contentment (John 10:10; Philippians 4:6–7; Galatians 5:22–23). Be encouraged!