Hearts

 N.T.#176 "Hearts"

Oct. 2023

Matthew 15-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

The Pharisees knew a lot about God, but they didn't know God. They claimed to honor God, yet their hearts were far from Him. Therefore, their worship meant nothing. It isn't enough to study the Word and not do it. Our actions and attitudes must line up with the Bible.

If they do not, then Isaiah had it right in 29:13: This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoreth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me. 

It is our heart that God wants. Without faith it is impossible to please God. We don't want to worship God in vain.

LET IT GROW

But in vain they do worship Me, reaching for doctrines the commandments of men. (verse 9)

Vain means to no purpose; folly; manipulation.

We don't want to be like those Pharisees, right? We should desire our worship to be from the heart and in spirit and in truth. Keeping rules and man-made traditions is not what impresses God. Jesus wants us to make Him first in our life. Are we?

LET IT GO

Keep our heart right with You, Lord Jesus.

Direct our thoughts so we honor You with our words and actions.