Proverbs 20:11- "Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right."
Matthew 7:16- "Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?"
I'm not going to wax eloquent here on this principle because I think that it speaks very clearly for itself. Obviously, the Lord thought it was important enough to put in both the Old Testament and the New Testament. It's a principle that has been true throughout all time and will continue to be true until the end of time.
No matter who we are, how old we are, etc., our actions speak to the condition of our hearts. Whether we like it or not- or even whether we know it or not- our actions will reveal what kind of person we really are. How many times do we think that we have people fooled as to what we are truly thinking or feeling by trying to adjust how we act? False fronts are not as effective as we think- God didn't design us that way!
So, are these verses telling us to watch how we act? No, God is interested in more than just "behavior modification". These verses are a warning to keep a close eye on our heart and it's condition. Scripture tells us to guard our hearts because God looks on the heart. Our behavior is simply one of the best indicators of our heart's condition.
Pastor Chad thanks once again for a very uplifting and very eye opening devotional. Thanks for reminding us to keep a close check on our hearts.
You are very sweet and precious for all you do I sincerely thank you.
:wub: ya
PQ