*Friday Reflection March 27, 2020*
*Friday Reflection*
*March 27, 2020*
*Understanding the heart*
The heart is devious above all else; it is perverse— who can understand it? I the Lord test the mind and search the heart, to give to all according to their ways, according to the fruit of their doings.
*Jeremiah 17:9-10 NRSV*
https://bible.com/bible/2016/jer.17.9-10.NRSV
Good morning friends, happy Friday to you all. I trust that you all are keeping well and safe during this time of crisis. Today’s text for reflection becomes very important for such a time as this. It is high time and *we must pay attention to the things that matters most. Things like the heart, the mind and the soul.* Journey with me in understanding the heart through this passage of scripture.
*Firstly we must note that the heart is devious above all else:* Jeremiah has given some reason to be cautious about the direction of the heart. He noted how the evil heart of the people of Judah had led them astray. *Our hearts often deceive us, presenting heart-fulfillment as the key to happiness.* What we desire is often not what we need. The advice “be true to your heart” fails when the heart is devious above all else. *It is not wise to trust in one’s heart, it is better to trust in God.*
*Secondly, we should take note of the fact presented in the passage, that the heart is perverse:* The heart is not only devious but also wicked. *Many have been led to rebellion, disobedience, and great sorrow by following their heart*, without challenging their heart and judging it by the measure of God’s truth. “Follow your heart” is poor advice when the heart is wicked. I hope after today, we refrain from giving such advice, *but instead encourage others to seek God’s truth.*
*Finally, we should take note that God understands the heart more than you do:* The heart’s deceit and wickedness are advanced enough that even the individual *may not know or understand their own heart, and it is even more difficult to discern the heart of others.* Though knowing the heart of one’s self or others is difficult and sometimes impossible, God searches, tests, and knows the heart and mind. *It is wise to trust what God says about us more than what we think or feel about ourselves.* Why? Because God perfectly knows the heart and mind of man , His judgment is true!
Until next week Friends, *Trust in the Lord with all of your heart, and lean not to your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your path*.
Blessings!
Reference: David Guzik – No distribution beyond personal use without permission.(2018).