The Condition of The Heart - Pastor Johnny Marten
The heart is central to both our physical and spiritual well-being. Just as a healthy physical heart is essential for our bodies to function, the condition of our spiritual heart determines the quality of our spiritual life. When our hearts are happy, it shows in our countenance; when they are broken, the pain is just as visible. We all long to be loved, and to experience that love, we must open our hearts, making ourselves vulnerable not only to joy but also to pain. Most of the deepest wounds we carry come from those closest to us—family, friends, or loved ones. These wounds, if left unaddressed, can harden our hearts, making it difficult to give or receive love.
Our emotions serve as warning lights, much like the engine light on a car’s dashboard, signaling that something within us needs attention. Ignoring these signals can lead to greater problems down the road, as seen in the story of Cain and Abel. Cain’s unchecked bitterness and unresolved heart issues led to tragic consequences, reminding us of the importance of addressing our emotional pain before it takes root and grows into something destructive.
Scripture urges us to guard our hearts, for everything we do flows from them. Yet, guarding our hearts does not mean closing them off completely. Building walls to protect ourselves from pain may seem effective, but it also blocks out love and healing. If we find ourselves with a hardened heart, there is hope: God promises to give us a new heart and a new spirit through Jesus Christ. No matter how broken or hardened our hearts have become, God offers healing and restoration.
The journey toward healing begins with honest self-examination and prayer. Like David, we can ask God to search our hearts, reveal what needs to be addressed, and lead us toward wholeness. Once we identify the source of our pain, we are invited to release it into God’s hands, trusting that He cares for us and desires our healing. Jesus came not only to save us but also to heal our brokenness, offering abundant life. The health of our spirit is directly tied to the condition of our heart, and as we allow God to heal and renew us, our lives will overflow with goodness, joy, and love.