State of the Heart

If you are a Bible believer, then like me, you believe that the human race began with the first man and first woman. From the legendary Adam and Eve came Cain and Abel, Ishmael and Isaac, Jacob and Esau, Joseph and his 12 brothers… Each Bible story reveals issues among brothers which lead to war and issues of the heart. From the beginning of time jealousy, jockeying for position and hatred has plagued the human race.

This writing isn’t meant to be a bible lesson but since the Bible can be used as a standard for morality, I’ll use it as a point of reference. Most of us are aware of the Ten Commandments given to Moses in Exodus. Just in case you don’t remember them all, here’s a brief breakdown: 1. Love the Lord thy God. 2. Don’t worship other gods. 3. Don’t take the Lord’s name in vain. 4. Remember to keep the Sabbath day holy. 5. Honor thy father and mother. 6. Don’t kill. 7. Don’t commit adultery. 8. Don’t steal. 9. Don’t lie. 10. Don’t covet.

Now, let’s look at what Jesus says are the greatest two commandments in Matthew 22:35-40; Mark 12:28-34 and Luke 10:27. Jesus said, “Love the LORD your God with all your heart, soul and mind”, which is the first commandment. The second greatest is, ”Love your neighbor as yourself.” When you look at the list of ten from Exodus and then the list of two Jesus gave, Jesus summed up the 10 in those two commandments, they’re all about Love! If you have love, it’s impossible to break any of the commandments.

Love is a word so loosely used and thrown around that people have stripped it of its meaning, significance and power. We’ve restricted love to terms and conditions, narcissism, skin color, socioeconomic status, and the shallow list goes on. We will never live in a world of peace, equality and freedom if the state of the heart doesn’t change. Real love changes the heart because it lets light in. Real love forgives. Real love is not malicious, nor does it seek to do harm. Real love regards life. Real love bless and not curse. Real love lives to give and care for the needs of others. Real love wants us all to win.

When the state of the heart is darkened it skews perceptions. Darkened hearts as well as hardened hearts segregates, creates biases and prejudices that block you from obtaining greatness. It limits you from reaching your full potential and fulfilling your purpose. Purpose wrapped in love extends your reach. Lack of love restricts and limits you naturally and supernaturally. When you‘re ready to begin your journey of purpose, start by evaluating the state of your heart.