THE HEART OF THE MATTER
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2 (NIV)
I remember being invited to a slumber party in middle school. As soon as the bus dropped me off that Friday afternoon, I bounced through the house, half-heartedly finished my chores and hurriedly packed my overnight bag. I eagerly waited by the door until my parents took me to the party.
All my closest friends were there, and we quickly fell into our familiar rhythm of giggles and conversation. Later, we settled into our sleeping bags to watch a wildly inappropriate movie. My best friend slipped away, and when she didn't return, I went looking for her. I found her in a bedroom, listening to music and drawing. The movie made her uncomfortable, and she knew her parents wouldn't approve. I knew mine wouldn't either. I wanted to stay with her, but temptation and the girls down the hall drew me back. Why did I feel that discomfort in my stomach as I walked away?
Years later, I recognize that feeling. It nudges me to pause and consider my choices, warning me when a conversation isn't edifying or a situation doesn't honor the Lord. It's more than conscience, which helps me discern right from wrong. It's the Holy Spirit working within me to transform my heart.
Ephesians says, Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them.
We can choose not to participate in conversations or behaviors that aren't good. But the Holy Spirit does something deeper. He transforms our hearts, producing what is good and right in God's eyes. God isn't merely interested in changing our behavior. He wants to transform our hearts, drawing us closer to Him so that His light shines through our lives.
APPLICATION: Think about a recent situation in which you felt uneasy about a conversation, decision or behavior. Did you simply recognize that something was wrong, or did you pause to consider what the Holy Spirit might be revealing about your heart?
PRAYER: Father, search my heart and reveal to me anything that I need to confess. Transform my heart to reflect Yours. Help me to follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit so that I can be a light for Your
Kingdom. Amen.
"… Our Father in heaven…" Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
• What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
"… may your name be kept holy." Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
• What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
"May your Kingdom come soon." Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
• Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
"Give us today the food we need," Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
• Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I'm around today?
"and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us" Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
• Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
"And don’t let us yield to temptation…" Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
• Is there anywhere I'm vulnerable to temptation?