The Standard September 2, 2023
“Follow your heart” is incomplete advice for a Christian. There are times when God wants us to follow our hearts, but only in the context of evaluating what Scripture has to say related to the subject and with the wisdom and discernment given by the Holy Spirit.
If my heart is telling me to cheat on my income taxes, God is not in that. If my heart is telling me to gossip, God is not in that. If my heart is telling me to have sex with the person I’m dating, God is not in that. If I’m a Christian and my heart is telling me to date a non-Christian, God is not in that. If my heart is telling me to cheat on my spouse, God is not in that. If my heart is telling me to build my life on material success and social status, God is not in that.
Some decisions are much clearer than others from a biblical point of view. Just because an open door stands before me, it does not mean that God wants me to walk through it. If we are patient in seeking God’s guidance, the Holy Spirit will show us the way. This process might not be easy; our hearts can deceive us.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) “Above everything else guard your heart, because from it flow the springs of life.” (Proverbs 4:23) “The heart is more deceitful than anything. It is uncurable—who can know it? I am the Lord who searches the heart, who tests the inner depths to give each person according to what he deserves, according to the fruit of his deeds.” (Jeremiah 17:10) “My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me.” (1 Corinthians 4:4)
The good news is that God formed us and knows our limitations. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit are gracious and forgiving. We are fully known and fully loved. God gave us personalities and passions. Our interests and desires can be molded by God and used for his glory. Although at any given point we are guilty of sins of omission as well as those of commission, we can pray for the Lord to enlighten us and forgive us.
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10) ) “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24)
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