Within the Holy Scriptures, the heart is presented as the center of man's personality or his inner self. The heart comprises the intellect, emotions and will -- the whole man. The Hebrews developed the word "heart" to constitute the core of man's being. The book of Proverbs speaks about the heart in much detail. "As in water face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects man" (27:19).
Proper direction is produced from the heart that follows God's will. Not only is the heart the center of man's being, but also the heart is the active force whereby thoughts, desires and actions are produced. Proverbs 4:23 admonishes man specifically to guard or protect his heart. "Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life."
One must "trust in the Lord" (3:5) fully, in order to implement wise choices from the heart. The heart that "seeks knowledge" (15:4) and "studies to answer" (15:28) understands that the "preparations of the heart" (16:1) are from the Lord. But "he that trusts in his own heart is a fool" (28:26). Therefore, how extremely important it is for the inner man to be influenced and instructed by the Lord when making decisions, for "the Lord weighs" the actions of the "heart" (21:2).
Proper desires also are produced from the heart that follows God's ways. "Give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways" (23:26). If our hearts continue to be pure and pliable, God can accomplish great and mighty things through us. "But he who hardens his heart will fall into calamity" (28:14). God must be allowed to mold and shape the "heart" through the power of the Holy Spirit. "A man's heart devises his way: but the Lord directs his steps" (16:9).
Although situations may seem severe to the heart of man, and circumstances seem chaotic and confusing, "God's plans will be established" (19:21). God is in control; therefore, the inward aspect of man can be tranquil and happy. A "joyful heart makes a cheerful face" (15:13) and "is good medicine" (17:22). Proper delight is produced from the heart that follows the Word of God. His commandments must be "continually upon (the) heart" (6:21).
Let us approach God with our "whole" hearts (Psalm 51:17) realizing that He alone can change and "cleanse us" completely and continually (1 John 1:9). God requires His children to love, serve and worship Him with all of the "heart" (Deuteronomy 6:45; Matthew 23:37; Luke 10:27). Is your heart really in your service for the Lord?
