Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life (Proverbs 4:23).
Lets look at the word spring. The King James Version of the Bible uses the word are instead. Are means to be, exist or live. (M-W) Other versions of the Bible use the word flows for the word spring. The definition of the word spring that has the closest meaning to the word are is comes into being; originates. (M-W)
The word spring implies a beginning or origin, while the word flows implies a continuous moving through or from one place to another. These are two totally different meanings. I believe He meant, guard your heart with all persistence, attentiveness, and tirelessness (diligence) (M-W), for out of it exists, originates or comes into being, (spring) the problems and concerns (issues) (M-W) of life. In other words, protect your heart because thats where your problems start.
In your heart is your personality, intellect, emotions, innermost character, feelings or inclinations. Our heart is our most essential or vital organ. The Breastplate of Righteousness was designed to protect the vital parts, mainly the heart. Putting on the breastplate of righteousness means to make following Gods laws, (living according to the Word of God), and being free from guilt or sin (righteousness) (M-W) a part of your every day living. This is what protects the heart. Keeping your heart pure unmixed with any other matter. (M-W) Is it possible for us to be without sin at all times? No. The Bible says, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).
But the awesome thing is that the blood of Jesus washes us from our sins!
Thank God for Jesus! Lets keep in mind that God instructs us to Guard Our Hearts. Be sure that you put on the Breastplate of Righteousness each day so that your heart can be protected.
Be Blessed!
About the Author
My name is Rudelle Thomas and I currently reside in the Metro Atlanta area. I write Inspirational non-fiction, fiction, poetry and devotionals. Some of my devotionals are featured on shelovesgod.com, ideamarketers.com, and sermoncentral.com. I have poetry published with the International Library of Poetry and am in the process of writing two books, one fiction and one non-fiction. "In The Midst Of It All" is the story of one woman's journey through life's struggles, and how her faith in God gave her the strength to keep fighting. "Able To Stand!" is a book that teaches us that the only way we can "withstand in this evil day" is to equip ourselves with the armor of God. It also teaches what the armor of God is, why we need it, and how to put it on.
My greatest achievement is my online magazine. I am the Editor and Publisher of an online magazine titled, "Divine Eloquence Ezine". Divine Eloquence is devoted to not only spreading the Gospel, but also to promoting your writing and published works. We have recently been presented with a number of Web Excellence awards. I am also the CEO of my own Desktop Publishing company, "Divine Designs 777, Inc. We specialize in Administrative needs, Webdesign, Logo design, Business cards, etc.
It is my desire use the gifts and talents that God has blessed me with to be a blessing to others!
Be Blessed!
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