The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? “I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve.”

God speaks through the prophet Jeremiah and reminds us that the human heart is inherently evil and beyond help without the grace of God and the power of the Spirit.

This scripture is a warning that we always need to be examining our heart and the motivations with which we conduct our lives. God knows and sees all things and He knows the deepest parts of our hearts. Because of that, we need to humbly bring our lives to Him and allow Him to correct us and purify us so that what we do for Him springs from integrity of heart. God will reward us not just for our deeds but also for the purity of heart that properly shapes our motivations.

I am well aware of my need to examine my heart and bring my failings and imperfections to the Lord in repentance and for forgiveness. Integrity of heart has to do with not just actions but attitude, thoughts and motivations. I am grateful that the Holy Spirit is faithful to love me enough to quicken to my heart when I am thinking wrong thoughts and when I may begin to look at the wrong thing.

Purity of heart is a process and a daily challenge to take every thought captive to the obedience of Jesus Christ. I find that when I am careful to do that, there is a peace of mind and a confidence in the Lord that enables me to experience true rest in my soul.

Thank You, Father God for your unfailing love and grace toward me. I am grateful for your grace and mercy that loves me just as I am, but cares enough about me to not leave me that way. I bring my heart to You this day and ask for your forgiveness for the times I have strayed and not done your will. Come Lord Jesus and fill me with your Spirit that I may receive your loving correction. Purify my heart so that I may serve you with effectiveness and integrity.