IT’S A HEART MATTER

Read: Matthew 15:8–20
Meditation Verse:
“But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man.” (Matthew 15:18)

Today’s reading is very instructive. As humans, we often focus on the outward man. We exercise, eat right, care for our appearance, and make sure we look presentable. But the big questions are:
How are we caring for our inward man?
Do we guard what enters our hearts and minds? Are we just as diligent about ensuring unforgiveness, anger, jealousy, envy, lust, or idolatry don’t take root within us?

Jesus emphasized this principle: “Do you not yet understand that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and is eliminated? But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man.” (Matthew 15:17–20)

Your heart is a treasure box. It stores whatever you allow in. And out of that treasure flow the fruits of your life—whether good or evil. Luke 6:45 says, “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart, his mouth speaks.”

This is a call to pay as much attention to your inner man as you do to your outer man—even more. Proverbs 4:23 tells us: “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.” The condition of your heart will ultimately shape the direction of your life.

Psalm 19:14 says, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.” Psalm 119:11 adds, “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You!”

After falling into sin, David didn’t ask for position or favor. He prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10)

Your focus drives your actions—and your focus flows from your heart.
It’s always a heart matter.

IN HIS PRESENCE is written by Oke Chinye.
Have you asked Jesus Christ to come into your heart?

He says in Mathew 11:28, “come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” He longs to give you rest."

Would you like to do so now? Here’s a prayer you can say:
Dear Jesus, I believe that You died to save me from all my sins. Today, I invite you into my heart and I accept you as my Lord and Saviour. Please forgive all my sins and help me to live my life for You.

If you prayed this prayer, send me an email at rockteachingministry@gmail.com

I would love to pray with you personally and send you a copy of my book; ‘Living the Life’ to encourage you as you begin your new life in Christ.