When I think about a security guard, a lifeguard, or even a defensive sports position, I think about one who is tasked with making sure people are safe and no harm comes to them. It is their responsibility to protect, stand watch, and provide security, to handle disturbances or prevent the opponent from coming into their space.
In Proverbs 4:23, we are told, Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it (NIV).
What we allow into the space of our hearts is our responsibility. We are tasked with letting in what pleases God and keeping out what displeases Him.
Guarding our hearts is about actively protecting our thoughts, emotions, desires, and will from sinful influences. We filter what we allow into our minds, focus on God’s truth, and maintain spiritual purity.
Guarding our heart does not mean having a closed heart, but being open to the work of God’s Spirit in our lives. We stay open to His love and leading, keeping our heart safe from harmful influences that prevent us from living in God’s love, joy, and peace.
In this world that is always throwing negative images, words, and experiences at us, how do we guard our hearts? Some clues from the Bible:
- Pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
- Memorise Scripture (Psalm 119:11)
- Stay connected to believers (Hebrews 10:24-25)
- Watch our speech (Matthew 15:11)
- Pay attention to what we look at (Matthew 6:22-23, Psalm 119:37)
- Be careful who we listen to (Romans 10:17, Matthew 7:24)
- Stand guard (Ephesians 6:13-17)
You are an equipped guard.
Stand your ground.
