Remember the skeletal anatomy song?
“The knee bone’s connected to the ankle bone, the ankle bone’s connected to the foot bone…”
In my case the foot bone is often connected to the mouth bone. My mind tends to race and my mouth tends to run. Unfortunately my filter malfunctions and words often spill out inappropriately. Calling me opinionated would be an understatement.
Matthew 12:34, “For the mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart.” HCSB
As our beliefs affect our thoughts, our thoughts also affect our speech.
Sometimes we treat the symptoms without dealing with the underlying cause. My mouth is not the problem, my heart is. I don’t need new words, I need a new heart; not a cleaned up heart, not a refurbished heart, a completely new heart. I need a transplant.
Ezekiel 36:26, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” NIV
One way God changes our hearts is through His word. Saturate your heart with truths from the Bible. Memorizing scripture allows you to wield the sword of the Spirit from your heart instead of your hands.
Psalm 51:10, “God, create a clean heart for me and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” HCSB
We change our heart by changing our mind. January is a good time for a fresh start. A new year makes us consider renewal. Allow God to renew your spirit and your mind. And allow him to give you a new heart.
Romans 12:2, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” HCSB
CHALLENGE
- Write Psalm 51:10 on an index card, memorize it and pray God will create a clean heart in you.
- Be intentional about spending daily time in God’s word. Choose a plan or Bible study to keep you in His word.