HEART OF FLESH
"'I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.'"
Ezekiel 36:26-27 (NIV)
During my high school years, in a Sunday morning Bible class, my teachers were discussing the concept of salvation and what it means to have a relationship with Jesus. At that time, I had not yet accepted Jesus, and I spoke up to express that while I believed He was real, I had no interest in being saved or developing a relationship with Him. By God's grace, I don't remember that moment. One of my teachers, who later became a mentor and dear friend, shared the story with me. She was in tears when I left the class that day and prayed that I would one day accept Jesus into my heart. Thankfully, I vividly remember the day I chose to accept Christ. My mentor was right there with me to guide me through prayer.
I understand why many fall away from Christianity or claim it superficially; it's easier, more comfortable and more convenient. I struggled to devote myself fully to Christ. For many years, I tried to hold onto the things of the world, but it only kept me tethered to my selfishness and distant from Jesus. When I fully devoted myself to Christ, I found freedom in areas of my life I never thought possible.
While it can be tempting to follow the ways of the world, God has a higher calling for His followers. This path requires action, dedication and selflessness. It takes more than changing habits; it takes a change of heart. Well, how do I do that? You don't. Jesus does. It's not about doing what is right; it's about depending on the One who makes all things right.
APPLICATION: Reflect on the state of your heart and where you are in your relationship with Jesus. Many choose the easier path that satisfies their desires, keeping Him at arm's length. Remember, Jesus has greater plans for you and will guide your steps toward His glory.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, I thank You for rescuing me and for giving me a new heart. I pray that my eyes remain focused on You and the path You have set before me. Please instill a new heart in those who are yearning for something more in this world, and guide their steps toward You. I love You. Amen.
"… Our Father in heaven…" Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
• What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
"… may your name be kept holy." Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
• What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
"May your Kingdom come soon." Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
• Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
"Give us today the food we need," Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
• Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I'm around today?
"and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us" Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
• Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
"And don’t let us yield to temptation…" Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
• Is there anywhere I'm vulnerable to temptation?