The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? “I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.”1
From a collection of Israelite wisdom literature, the father encourages his son to keep or guard his heart for it is the wellspring of life.2 Hear, my son, and be wise, and direct your heart in the way.3 Left alone we shall definitely drift away. Our heart needs directing for it had been corrupted from the beginning. Thus, most often we think our way is right in our own eyes; but the LORD knows otherwise—he weighs the heart,4 searches it, and tests the mind.
God constantly speaks; but we need to learn to hear. The process of transformation is from ears, to mind, to heart. And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it.”5 Because of His steadfast love and faithfulness,6 we can trust him. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.7
As parents we can expect the promise; provided we obey the premise. Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.8 “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD our God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children . . .”9 “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and you young men shall see visions. . . . And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved. . . .10
Praise the LORD! Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in his commandments! His offspring will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.11 He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the LORD. His heart is steady; he will not be afraid, until he looks in triumph on his adversaries.12
Oh give thanks to the LORD; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples! Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works! Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice! Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually!13
Notes:
1. Jeremiah 17:9-10
2. Proverbs 4:23 (compare ESV and NIV)
3. Proverbs 23:19
4. Proverbs 21:2
5. Isaiah 30:21
6. Lamentation 3:22-23
7. Proverbs 3:5
8. Proverbs 22:6
9. Deuteronomy 6:4-9
10. Joel 2:28-32
11. Psalm 112:1-2
12. Psalm 112:7-8
13. Psalm 105:1-4
