Protect Your Heart

What was Israel's most prized national possession? Not the palace, that mansion of luxury where the king, resided. Not the military barracks, where generals devised strategies of defense or attack. No, it was the temple-the special place where Israel worshiped God.

The descendants of Levi were responsible for guarding this most sacred spot in Israel. Our Scripture for today names these men and gives their qualifications. Because of the importance of their task, they were to have great ability and strength (vv.6-8). They were responsible to open and close the massive temple doors, and to protect the sacred objects inside from being stolen.

In New Testament terms, we who believe in Christ are temples too (1 Cor. 6:19-20). Our spiritual center, referred to in the Bible as the heart, contains valuable treasures as well: virtue. loyalty to God. trust love, purity. The wise Solomon instructed us to keep or guard our heart with all diligence (Prov. 4:23).

How do we guard our hearts against evil? By thinking right (Prov. 4:20-23), by meditating on God's Word (Ps. 119:11). by confessing our sins ( 1John 1:9).

Be a good gatekeeper. Protect your heart! DCI

O Lord, help us protect our hearts
From evil that would enter in.
And may we guard our purity
Against the revages of sin

BE ON GUARD AGAINST EVIL, OR YOU'LL BE INFLUENCE BY IT