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Read: Proverbs 4:23
Listen: Proverbs 4

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23

Throughout Scripture, God emphasizes the importance of his people protecting their hearts. The book of Proverbs is written by King Solomon, a man who is known for his wisdom yet also has seasons of deep turmoil. Solomon knows that leaving a heart unguarded leads a person far from God. It is probable that he writes about guarding the heart because he needs this message himself. The meaning of “heart” in this verse is the deepest place of a person—their emotions, thoughts and behaviors. Since the heart is the central wellspring of a person’s life, guarding it diligently is key to walking in the fullness God intends.

We would be wise to keep a close watch over our own hearts as well. “Above all else” alludes to this being a central component in our walk with God. Later in the Bible, there is urgency as Paul tells us to protect our hearts and put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:13). As followers of Jesus, we are in a battle against good and evil. We need this protective armor as we go against the deceptive ways of our enemy, Satan. Knowing that the enemy is the father of lies, we are called to guard our hearts, keeping them anchored in truth and under God’s protection. This week we will look at the armor of God and how to put it on in our own lives.

TODAY: Take time to pray Proverbs 4:23 and commit it to memory. Use this verse throughout the week as a prayer to ask God to help you guard your heart.