KINGDOM ASSURANCE: Proverbs 21: 1-31

As we begin Proverbs 21, the theme of this chapter seems to be about the heart.  As we grow in our walk with the Lord, we understand how He is always at work to change our heart.  Think about it, we introduce salvation by asking if Jesus is in our hearts.  

Yes, my friends, we are told, “The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”  1 Samuel 16: 7

Here’s how the chapter opens:  “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord; He directs it like a watercourse wherever He pleases.”  Proverbs 21: 1

The analogy of a watercourse being directed is likened to a stream of water that’s channeled through the hands of the king.  

This verse explains such a great visual.  When a stream of water is released it’s hard to control, lead and direct, isn’t it?  Why?  It is unstable, fluid, and fluctuating.  A king (leader) who is inconsistent, and changing can be directed, and settled by the hand of God. He can fix an unstable, wounded heart keeping that king steady and within bounds.

Our God is always seeking to change our hearts.  “All a man’s ways seem right to him, but the Lord weighs the heart.”  Proverbs 21: 2  

As believers, our declaration of loyalty should echo these beautiful words from the Psalmist:  

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.  See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.”  Psalm 139: 23-24  

I love how the Psalmist is asking for God to search his heart.  How many of us really ask that of Him?  

As we grow in our walk with the Lord, we understand that “To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.”  Proverbs 21: 3

For when our hearts are transformed into His character we see as He sees, and we move as He moves with compassion, mercy and love.  For, “He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.”  Proverbs 21: 21 

These are the benefits for those who seek wisdom.  

“There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord.”  Proverbs 21: 30

Seeking a heart after God is using wisdom.  Pursue His heart and honor will follow you.  

This is an updated edition of a post originally published on My Beloved’s Voice

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About the Author

Mary Beth Pecora, a faithful wife, mother, grandmother, friend, worshiper and servant leader, who loves life and loves people. More importantly, she passionately loves God and the fullness of who He is! For twenty-three years she has served in leadership positions within the ministry of Aglow International. Currently, she and her husband serve at The Secret Place--A Psalm 91 Ministry. It's a place for individual folks to come, be exhorted and prayed for, while being ushered to ministry stations within the room. They continue to serve monthly in the Prayer Room at their home church that they have been a part of for almost forty years. In April of 2022 they both received their Ministry License and were Ordained in May of 2023. She delights in encouraging folks of all ages within various walks of life. Her love of writing is now her passion, which led her to publish two books, "Restoration Explosion In The New Year," and "Navigating The Mysteries Of God." Above all that’s been accomplished and concluded, the BEST thing to her is knowing her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is her everything—her very best friend. Visit: Mybelovedsvoice.com

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