How can we cultivate a heart that follows God, contrasting Jeremiah 5:23? Jeremiah 5:23—A Snapshot of the Problem “ ‘But these people have stubborn and rebellious hearts; they have turned aside and gone away.’ ” Recognizing the Marks of a Stubborn Heart • Ignores God’s voice even when truth is clear (Jeremiah 6:17) • Clings to self-governance rather than God’s rule (Judges 21:25) • Displays outward religiosity while harboring inward rebellion (Isaiah 29:13) • Grows dull and unresponsive because of habitual sin (Hebrews 3:12-13) God’s Offer of a New Heart • “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you” (Ezekiel 36:26). • Fulfilled through the new birth—“Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). • Sealed by the Holy Spirit, who writes God’s law on our hearts (2 Corinthians 1:22; Hebrews 8:10). Daily Practices That Cultivate a Responsive Heart • Humble confession: keep accounts short (1 John 1:9). • Scripture saturation: “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). • Quick obedience: “Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me” (John 14:21). • Spirit-led prayer: align desires with God’s (Romans 8:26-27). • Corporate fellowship: “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Consistent worship and gratitude: softens the will and exalts God (Psalm 95:1-8). • Active service: love expressed through deeds renews zeal (Galatians 5:13). Guardrails Against Drifting Back to Stubbornness • Guard your mind: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23). • Test influences: refuse counsel that dulls spiritual sensitivity (Psalm 1:1). • Practice repentance as a lifestyle, not a last resort (Revelation 2:5). • Keep short-term victories from breeding complacency (1 Corinthians 10:12). • Walk by the Spirit to overcome fleshly impulses (Galatians 5:16). Living Evidence of a Heart After God • David: “I have found David…a man after My own heart; he will do everything I want him to do” (Acts 13:22). • Produced fruit: quick repentance (Psalm 51), passionate worship (Psalm 63), and courageous obedience (1 Samuel 17). • Our call: present our bodies “as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1-2). From stubborn and rebellious to tender and obedient—the journey begins with regeneration, grows through continual surrender, and blossoms in Spirit-empowered obedience. |
    |