While teaching what is commonly called the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8) In Psalm 119:2, David wrote, “Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart”.
How we grow in our Christian life all depends on who has our heart. If we keep our heart and desires on the things of this world, we’ll NEVER grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ. However, if we focus our heart and desires on Him, our relationship will flourish.
When a man and woman first meet each other, they may be attracted to each other, but they don’t really know each other yet. However, the more they learn about each other and that attraction changes to love the more one’s heart is captured by the other. And soon, one can hardly go through the day without thinking about the other person who has captured their heart. Well, the more we learn about Jesus Christ and the more we grow in our relationship with Him, the more our heart will be captured by His amazing grace and love for us.
Solomon wrote, “Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23) We too often think it doesn’t matter what entertainments, pleasures, thoughts, and feelings we allow and keep in our lives, but Jesus warned in Matthew 6:21, “…where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” What we value most in life will be what controls our life.
So, how much do we value a personal relationship with Jesus Christ? Enough to make HIM our main focus in life? Enough to make the necessary “sacrifices” of our values, our time, our entertainments and pleasures? The pleasures and joys of knowing Jesus Christ and having Him work in our lives are worth 10000% the pleasures of this world, but it all boils down to what do we value more? Who has our heart?
Think closely about what Jesus Christ did for us. He died on the cross for our sins. He cares deeply for us, and wants only what is best for our lives. He promises to meet ALL of our needs, and a home in heaven for all of eternity. How can we not love Him with ALL of our heart?