Guard You Heart
Proverbs 4:23
Guard your heart above all else, for it is the source of life.
Be careful what you love. Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also, according to Matthew 6:21. The word “guard” here is rendered “keep” in the KJV. It means to protect, maintain, or obey. We are to protect our hearts from the dangers of this world because from our hearts flow the wellspring of life. We will live according to what is in our hearts.
If our hearts are full of deceit, we will live a lie. If our hearts are full of pride, we will be arrogant. If our hearts are lustful, we will follow the lusts of the flesh. If our hearts desire integrity, we will live honest and trustworthy lives. Whatever is in your heart will manifest itself in your behavior.
What is in your heart today? Guard it from the works of the flesh. Don’t let evil corrupt your heart because it will eventually flow into your behavior.
Be careful who you choose as your friends. It is wise to guard yourself from those you know wish to cause you harm or from those who could easily lead you down a wrong path. You can still love people and be guarded against negative behavior. This is why we must learn to set boundaries and not let anyone cross our lines of integrity or personal influence. Setting boundaries is healthy for all parties involved and can even strengthen relationships when both parties respect the other’s right to guard their own hearts. If someone truly respects you, they will respect the boundaries you set. Anyone who does not respect you will seek to cross those boundaries or become mad because you set them. You have every right to guard your heart or your personal life from anything that invades you or seeks to cause you harm.
Guard your heart from the works of the flesh. Learn to set boundaries and develop healthy relationships. A happy heart will produce a happy life.
Have a blessed day!