We often hear the saying “let’s get down to the heart of the matter.” This means what is driving the situation. Our heart is what ultimately leads us. In a battle between the heart and the mind, the heart usually wins. This is affirmed in Proverbs 4:23 as it says “Above everything else, guard your heart. Everything you do comes from it.” 

The Lord knows what is hidden in our hearts, what the motive behind our thoughts and decisions are. He knows what needs to change— what needs to be renewed. When we receive Jesus as our savior we go through this renewing of the heart. That’s what this scripture refers to. He knows our hearts, He knows when we have truly let His Son into it. He confirms that rebirth with the Holy Spirit, no matter if we’re Jew or Gentile. Our old, fleshy heart is put to death and a new heart that seeks after the Father starts beating. 

Whether you have received this new heart or still have the old, God knows what needs to happen in your life to bring it into alignment with His heart. Phillip was tested to see if he believed provision would come in John 6. We are given tests to see what our heart’s response will be. Will we let it draw us closer to God? Will we let it change our beliefs, our thoughts, our motives? May we have the eyes to see these tests for what they are — not a trap, a punishment, or a temptation for sin, but a chance to “put on your new nature, created to be like God— truly righteous and holy” (Ephesians 4:24).

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You that You can look into my heart. I hope that what You see is pleasing to You, though You probably also see some sins and areas for growth. I give You permission, indeed, I entreat You to wash the areas of my heart that need to be purified. I give You permission to strengthen my heart for Your kingdom. Strengthen my heart through Your Holy Spirit, through Your Word, through encouraging people in my life, and even through trials. Though I confess I prefer easier paths than trials. But I pray that You would help me count it as pure joy whenever I face trials of any kind. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

We cannot renew our own hearts, but we can desire renewal and ask for it in Jesus’ Name. As the song writer wrote, “If you don’t have a willing heart, ask Him to give you one.” Let us do that today, whether you need to take the first step with Jesus or the next step.