The heart which pumps the blood through our bodies is a vital organ. The wise man will take care not to damage his heart. The Bible uses the term “heart” to refer to another part of man, that is, the thinking, feeling part. This heart is also vital. And the wise man will take care not to damage it. Solomon wrote, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” (Proverb 4:23)
The thoughts of the heart determine the words and deeds of men. Again quoting Solomon, “As he thinketh in his heart, so is he.” (Proverb 23:7) Jesus made it clear that the evil deeds of men originate in the heart. “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: all these evil things come from within, and defile the man.” (Mark 7:21-23) On the other hand if a man thinks right, he will do right. Therefore Paul wrote, “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)
One of the best ways to keep the thoughts of the heart right is through the study of the Bible. The Word of God challenges us to think proper thoughts. Another way to guard the heart is by worshiping regularly. In the public worship our hearts are encouraged to think upon that which is good. We need to grasp every opportunity to keep our hearts from the corrupting influences of the worlds’ evil.
Claude