Your Heart

What kind of man did God want to be the king? The people might have wanted someone who promised prosperity and military victories. Like people in our time, they may have focused on characteristics that made sense to them. Perhaps a charismatic personality. An impressive resume. Being an articulate speaker.

The Bible makes clear that God has completely different standards. He “sees not as man sees.” He does not evaluate people based on their “outward appearance” but “looks on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). As an example, God choose David to be king, even though he was just a boy and not even considered worthy by his father or brothers. But his heart was right. To God, that was what mattered.

Several generations later, David’s descendant, Amaziah, became king. He displayed many godly characteristics, and even “did right in the sight of the Lord,” at least at first.

But ultimately he fell into sin. Why? Because his heart was not “perfect or blameless” (Amplified Bible). He did not have “a whole heart.” He had divided loyalties. He was not completely committed to God, and eventually drifted away from Him.

The condition of our hearts was a key theme of Jesus’ ministry. He taught that “blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8). That “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).

What is the condition of your heart? The focus of your inner life? Do you have divided loyalties? Or are you committed to serve God with your whole being? Is Jesus really your Lord? Do you yearn for God and His Kingdom?

Don’t be divided or distracted. Commit your life to Him without reservation.