The Power Of A Pure Heart
As soon as we pull into the church parking lot, I'm ready to jump out of the car and into the church. I make final adjustments in the mirror, and then, the kids and I hop out of the car. Usually, on the way into the building, I want to spit my gum out. The only problem is I am super sensitive about honoring the House of the Lord and would never spit gum on the property. Stupid conviction, right? Actually, not at all.
Integrity is who we are when nobody else is watching us. The reality is that, even when we think we are hidden from man, God is always watching. It's the little things that God sees in us that will determine the level that He can use us for His purposes. Would God be mad at me for spitting gum out, no of course not! But, it's my heart of honor for His house that He sees through my actions.
"Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7
A pure heart is a heart that can be used by God--not because of our own perfection--but because we are willing to learn, be corrected, repent, and change. A pure heart is quick to obey and quick to repent out of love for the Lord. Obedience can't earn love, but it can--and does--provoke favor and blessing! A pure heart is devoted to the purposes of God above personal preference or even offense!
"God will not be mocked whatever a man sows he will reap." Galatians 6:7
Stay true to the convictions you have. Be a person of integrity, and don't change your convictions due to convenience or companionship. Live a life of integrity and keep your heart pure before the Lord, and your life will be full of peace and blessing. Even if it doesn't seem like it now, God sees your actions and the attitudes of your heart as seeds that you are sowing. He will not be mocked; the Bible says, you will reap good results in due season! ( Galatians 6:9)
Integrity and the condition of your heart are measuring sticks to determine the level at which God can use you. There is no substitute in the Kingdom for a pure heart; keep your heart pliable before the Lord and your convictions sharp; get rid of anything that would keep God from being able to use you!
Your convictions are yours! They are determined between you and the Lord. Man's opinion doesn't matter against God's Truth touching and speaking to your heart.
Others will not be responsible for the convictions God has given you! You have a purpose God wants for your life, and your ability to keep your heart pure will determine how that plan unfolds!