Follow God, Not Your Heart - In the Morning When I Rise

Lord, why can following my heart be dangerous?

The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. When sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. People begin to think up foolish ideas of what I am like. As a result, their minds become dark and confused. And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worship idols.

Jeremiah 17:9; Mark 7:21-22; James 1:15; Romans 1:21, 23

How do I follow you with all my heart?

My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them. Just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your life be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.

Proverbs 4:20-22; Colossians 2:6-7

How can I pray for a heart that longs to please you?

May you produce in me, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to you.

Hebrews 13:21

Following your heart can be dangerous if it means you make decisions based only on what you imagine is best—not on what God says is best for you. As sinful people, we are naturally tempted to choose paths that go against God’s way for us. So how can you protect your heart and make wise decisions that please God? Fill your mind and heart with God’s Word and ask him to give you the wisdom to live according to his truth. When making decisions, constantly ask, “Is this desire leading me toward or away from God and his Word?”