This passage shows how priests in the Old Testament would put certain objects over their heart when making important decisions. Pastor Hodges used this to illustrate that people often make decisions from the heart. But, what if the heart is wounded?

Rather than seeing the situation as God sees it, decisions will be made under the influence of a wounded heart. Wounds can cause illusory limitations - whether they are based on what others have said, or are self-diagnosed. These limitations are imaginary, not given by God. Nonetheless, wounds persist over years and can impact daily decisions, attitudes, and lifestyles.

Further, it is possible to be saved yet not healed. Healing is a process that takes time. The transformation that takes place from knowing and spending time with God is where healing happens. One must fully turn themselves over to God and submit in obedience. “Look, to obey is better than sacrifice, to pay attention is better than the fat of rams” (1 Samuel 15:22). Many want to get to heaven but don’t want to change or be healed. Knowing God should lead to repentance, produce a transformation of the heart, and result in a change of actions. This is the process of healing.

Jesus is the substance of the healing process and Jesus is the great healer. His death on the cross enables his children to have emotional peace. “The chastisement for our peace was upon him, And by his stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). God’s children too often settle that His healing power is only for bodily wounds. The truth is - Jesus can heal all things, including emotional wounds and wounds on the heart. He is the God of peace. “…and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). And again, “…let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful” (Colossians 3:15). For this reason, God’s children can seek Jesus, be transformed, and heal the wounds on the heart. 

Dear Heavenly Father,

I come before You with an open heart, surrendering every wound, every hurt, and every burden I have carried for too long. You are the Healer of all things, and I ask that You touch the broken places within me. Heal the wounds that have shaped my thoughts, my decisions, and my actions. Let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Teach me to see myself and my circumstances through Your truth, not through the lens of my pain. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Take time this week to identify any wounds on your heart that may be influencing your decisions or limiting your faith. Bring them before God in prayer, asking for healing and transformation. As you spend time in His presence, meditate on scriptures about His peace and healing, such as Isaiah 53:5 and Philippians 4:7. Choose to obey His leading, allowing His truth to shape your heart rather than past hurts.