Our scripture this morning is Proverbs 4:23-25 (NLT).
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech. Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you.
In ancient times the heart was considered the source of truth and character. They believed it controlled our emotions and desires. We still use this as an illustration of what people feel inside and how it can make us behave or misbehave.
This passage continues with a warning against speaking evil because our words can lead to actions. Speaking about what is good and necessary can help us pay attention to the activity needed to care for our brothers and sisters. Telling others the Good News keeps our focus on Christ.
This focus is specifically mentioned at the end of the passage. We are told to “look straight ahead and fix your eyes on what lies before you”. By following the instruction Jesus gave us and sharing God’s love with the world, we can grow in that love and make disciples of all nations as we have been commissioned to do.
Loving Lord, You came to show us a way to be saved through Your love and sacrifice for us. Help us to lay down our disbelief and go in Your name to all people. Amen.
