Benefits of Guarding Your Heart and Focusing Forward

Monday, October 06, 2014 Bryan Hudson 2 Comments

From http://inspirationimages.zenfolio.com

Proverbs 4:18 The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, which shines ever brighter until the full light of day. 19 But the way of the wicked is like total darkness. They have no idea what they are stumbling over…23 Guard your heart above all else,  for it determines the course of your life…25 Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. 26 Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. 27 Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil.

Everything in your life follows the condition of your heart. Emotions, thoughts, and decisions all flow from the heart. People who are sad and bitter consistently make bad decisions because “painful disappointment” (which is the definition of bitterness) shapes their thoughts. People who are confused often think others are confused, but its nothing more than distorted perception resulting from their own confusion. When dealing with negative people, remember these words; “Your perception is not my reality.”

On the positive side, a heart that is guarded by the grace of God empowers people and produces the following benefits:

1. A bright path, which “feels” like optimism and positive outlook about self and others
2. A brighter path day by day, setbacks not withstanding
3. A clearer course for your life going forward
4. A straight, stable path or foundation
5. Ability to stay your course and not get sidetracked or distracted        

Reflection Question: Regarding your heart, what  “course correction” do you need to make?

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