Proverbs 28:14 Happy [is] the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.
Proverbs 28:26 He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.
It is clear from these two proverbs that one of our greatest adversaries is our own sinful heart. When we harden our heart and disobey God,we fall into mischief. When we trust in the base feelings or desires of our hearts, we are acting like a fool. How much better will our day be if we heed the proverb that tells us to “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding” (Prov 3.5).
Why does God warn us about trusting in our own heart? Here it is, plain and simple. Jeremiah 17:9 “The heart [is] deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it?” Jesus Himself told us the grim condition of our hearts apart from the sanctifying grace of The Holy Spirit. Speaking within the context of things that defile us, Jesus said, Mark 7:21-23 “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.” Beloved, that lust describes Raymond Viola’s heart. When I harden my heart and refuse to obey God, this is what comes out.
My heart by nature and choice is contrary to the word of God and the will of God. Romans 8:7 “Because the carnal mind [is] enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.” But God has a better way for us to live. Job 28:28 “And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that [is] wisdom; and to depart from evil [is] understanding.” It is so important for us to not only be serious students of God’s Word, but diligent doers. Listen to God today. Trust in Him in everything and for everything. As Proverb 28.14 says, you will be happy that you did.
