Pure Hearts
Happiness is a great feeling, but that elation is often fleeting. It ebbs and flows in different seasons of our lives — yet it's possible to find joy in all things. If we have pure hearts, we can see God in the midst of anything we go through (Matthew 5:8; Psalms 24:3-4). A pure heart is one that is clean and undivided in devotion to God. It's a singular focus: How can I love the Lord? It's less about our behavior; following the rules down to the letter, and making sure we always act in accordance with His commands. God desires your heart most of all (Matthew 15:8; Proverbs 4:5). If our hearts become distracted and divided, the rest of our lives follow suit (Matthew 23:25-28; Matthew 15:17-20; Jeremiah 17:9-10). We need to let the Holy Spirit purify our hearts, and often, that takes place through struggle and testing (Proverbs 17:3; Isaiah 48:10). When we embrace those seasons and cling to Him, He puts others in our lives to walk with us (2 Timothy 2:22).
2) How can I "start with my heart" and give it to the Lord?
3) Am I more concerned with my outward appearance or my heart?