Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. (Proverbs 4:23)
Our food is not limited to what we eat with our mouths. In fact, what we feed our minds and spirits—through what we hear, read, watch, and meditate on—is even more vital.
In Proverbs 4:23, the Word of God reminds us to guard our hearts with all diligence, because out of them flow the issues of life. Jesus also taught us to be watchful and spiritually alert. What enters our heart shapes our decisions, our faith, and our future.
As we enter the second half of the year, the Spirit of God is drawing our attention to the importance of guarding what we allow into our inner life. This is a season to take practical steps to protect your spirit—by being intentional about what you listen to, what you dwell on, and what you allow to influence your thoughts.
We must understand that it is our personal responsibility to cultivate and maintain an atmosphere of faith. Surround yourself with the Word, with prayer, and with materials that strengthen your belief in God’s promises—so that you can experience mighty faith results. Do everything in your power to avoid environments filled with fear, doubt, or negativity.
While you may not be able to control what others say around you, you can choose what you think about, meditate on, and believe. As it is written, “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5, KJV).
Moreover, God has given you a daily tool—the “secret of success”—His Word. Each day, it brings direction to your steps and strength to your faith.
Give yourself wholly to it, that’s just the right thing you need to eat for your spiritual growth every day.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for teaching me and guiding me each and every day. Thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit. As I spend time ministering to You, I fill myself with the Holy Spirit so that I may be surrounded by the right influences. I refuse to accept or receive any negative thought or direction. I say no to the devil and all his lies. I receive divine inspiration, strength, and direction from You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.