Heart as Keeper

08-3o-09

Proverbs 4:20-22

Proverbs is instructing the son to keep the words given to him in the midst of the heart. Keeping the words in the heart enables them to always be in his face. He would constantly have to deal with the words in every decision. The words would permeate his thought patterns and eventually dictate the behavior of his life.

Keeping involves dealing with the uncomfortable feelings caused by the presence of the words of Wisdom in the heart. Undoubtedly there are times when the words of Wisdom will conjure unpleasant feelings or cause what appears to be pleasant circumstance to be avoided. Removing the words of Wisdom from the midst of the heart is not an option. The unpleasant feelings must be endured. The result for doing so far outweighs the displeasure.

Although the words kept in the heart gives the impression of the son being responsible, the reality is quite the opposite. The words kept in the midst of the heart are intended to keep the son and lead him into the blessed life. The words of Wisdom kept in the heart over time will keep the son. By instructing on which path to take, by selectively limiting options, by dictating what must be done the words actually ward off situation and experiences designed to bring harm and misfortune. As the son keeps the words of Wisdom in the midst of the heart, the heart keeps the son.

The heart is an organ of transformation. It is the place where words gravitate into action and beliefs are solidified into attitudes. By keeping the words of Wisdom in the midst of the heart the son’s life is literally transformed into a healthy successful life.