I’ve often heard the saying that you don’t truly know a person until you live with them. While there’s some truth to this, the Bible teaches us that the true nature of a person is revealed by what’s in their heart. Proverbs 27:19 (NLT) says, “As a face is reflected in water, so the heart reflects the real person.” This means that, while living with someone can reveal many aspects of their character through daily interactions, the state of their heart reveals their true nature. This insight doesn’t require living with them; it can be discerned almost immediately if we are paying close attention.
Just as looking into water lets you see your own reflection; our behavior and decisions reveal what’s going on inside us. When the Bible refers to the heart, it’s not talking about the physical organ that pumps blood through our body. Instead, it’s talking about the core of our being, where our emotions, intentions, and desires reside. This “heart” is where our true self is found, shaping and influencing the choices we make and how we interact with others.
Our actions, words, and decisions are reflections of this inner heart. If we pay attention to these external signs, we can gain insight into what is truly happening inside us. For example, the way we respond to challenges or treat others often reveals our inner thoughts and feelings. As Jesus said in Matthew 12:34 (NLT), “For whatever is in your heart determines what you say.” Understanding this can help us better assess where we stand emotionally and if we’re truly representing Christ. We should then work towards aligning our actions with our faith and the standards of God’s Word.
Take, for example, someone who is clinging to a relationship that is no longer healthy. They might struggle to imagine life without their partner, even though the love is no longer mutual. Trying to convince them to let go can often be futile if they’re not ready. They may be harboring doubt, fear, and insecurity, leading to flawed decisions.
A heart that hasn’t embraced the truth of God’s Word can be untamed and misled. It may cling to what feels familiar or comforting, even if it’s harmful. As Deuteronomy 31:6 (NLT) reminds us, “So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.” This verse encourages us to find strength and courage in God’s presence. By embracing His divine support, we can face our fears, release what holds us back, and move forward toward the better plans that God has for our lives.
Many women struggle with fear and pain when a long-term relationship ends, especially when they’ve allowed someone deep access to their heart. The end of such a relationship can be jarring and letting go can seem impossible. It’s common to see women holding onto past hurts for years, which can prevent them from opening their hearts to new love. But this isn’t part of God’s plan for His daughters. He encourages us to release our burdens and trust Him with our healing. In 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT), we are reminded, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” This verse reassures us that God is intimately concerned with our pain and will help us through it. Trusting Him and letting go of what no longer serves us aligns with His plan for us and opens the door to new beginnings.
We all need God’s forgiveness and to continue growing in Christ. Human beings are not perfect. We have all made mistakes, but our personal experience in Christ provides a witness that following him leads to transformation. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT) tells us, “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” When we surrender to Him and let Him guide our lives, this change becomes evident. Therefore, we should look to see this same change in the person we hope to spend our lives with. It’s important not to fear investing in a new relationship, but we should proceed with caution, patience, and wisdom. However, we should be very careful and not leap into relationships. By carefully examining behaviors, actions, and whether someone truly loves Christ, we can gauge their alignment with true faith in him.
Although we can’t know everything that’s in a person’s heart, we can gain valuable insights by observing their behavior and their love for God. Our actions and choices reveal the true state of our hearts, reflecting our deepest emotions and intentions. As we strive to follow our Lord and Savior’s example, it is crucial to continuously evaluate our hearts and seek his guidance. The transformation that comes from a genuine relationship with Jesus should be evident in our own lives and in the lives of those we choose to be close to. By embracing the truth of God’s Word and allowing His Spirit to guide us, we can ensure that our hearts are aligned with His Will. Let us heed Proverbs 4:23 (NLT), which advises us to guard our hearts diligently, and let’s trust in God’s promises to lead us toward a future that pleases Him and brings us true contentment and fulfillment.■
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
“What’s in Your Heart” written by Kim Times, edited by Rev. Fran Mack and KLizzie for Sundie Morning Sistas ©2024. All rights reserved. All done to the glory of God through Jesus Christ, our Lord! SMS is dedicated to inspiring and encouraging Christian Women through the Word of God.