“The heart of the problem is the problem of the heart.”

I wish that was original with me but I’m sure it’s not. I just cannot tell you where I read it or heard it. But here is what is running through my head this morning:

Today’s world is a mess. It’s like an old DeGarmo and Key song playing through my head right now: “Judgment Day.” (I know it is not possibly your style of music but the message is pointed. I’m sorry I couldn’t find one with lyrics but Dana’s voice is clear enough to understand the words). Guns blazing. Riots on the streets. Vitriolic speech. Accusations galore. And the lists go on. Why? Because that is who we are. We would like to say it is not me…but it is. I go back to my original statement: The heart of the problem is the problem of the heart. The Bible is clear on this fact -> it all comes from within.

Paul David Tripp wrote:

“If your heart isn’t ruled by God’s honor and your life by God’s plan, you may seem religious, but what you’re living isn’t biblical faith.” (40 Days of Faith-p.22)

Isn’t this exactly what Jesus got so upset with the Pharisees over? Here, listen to Isaiah 29:13- “And the Lord said, ‘Because this people draw near with their mouth and honor me with their lips, while their hearts are far from me…’ “ Sound familiar? It should. Jesus used those same words in Mt. 15:8-9. 700 years before Isaiah was describing the heart of man-then, and in 700 years- and yes, even in 2020.

James is right, you know? We fight and quarrel because our passions are at war within us (James 2:1) Read again my opening statement. Can you disagree? Not according to Isaiah, Jesus and James.  That statement is surely not original with me, but it still holds true.

“Father, help me to get my heart aligned with Yours. May my life and heart be consistent with Your Word.”