In what ways can we ensure our hearts remain open to God's will? A Hard Lesson from Exodus 10:27 “But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he was not willing to let them go.” Pharaoh’s refusal shows how quickly a heart can calcify when it resists God’s clear commands. To keep from following his path, we cultivate habits that invite God’s continual shaping. Recognize the Early Warning Signs • Diminished sensitivity to Scripture’s conviction • Excusing small compromises (Luke 16:10) • Resisting wise counsel (Proverbs 12:15) • Growing indifference toward worship and prayer Guard What Enters “Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.” (Proverbs 4:23) • Filter media, conversations, and influences that dull spiritual appetites • Memorize and meditate on passages that confront personal weak points • Ask the Spirit to expose hidden motives before they blossom into sin (Psalm 139:23-24) Respond Immediately to God’s Voice “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” (Hebrews 3:15) • Act on promptings without delay—delayed obedience often becomes disobedience • Confess sin at once; lingering guilt numbs the conscience • Keep short accounts with others: seek forgiveness quickly to prevent bitterness Practice Active, Not Passive, Obedience “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” (James 1:22) • Translate every sermon or study into one concrete action step • Serve in unnoticed roles; humility tills the soil of the heart • Share the gospel regularly—evangelism sharpens dependence on God Lean into Transforming Promises “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you.” (Ezekiel 36:26) • Thank God daily for the regenerating work already begun • Trust that His power, not self-effort, keeps the heart tender • Expect ongoing change; stagnation signals drift from His will Nurture Community Accountability • Invite honest questions from mature believers about your walk • Join a small group where Scripture is opened and applied together • Celebrate testimonies of obedience; hearing them rekindles zeal Keep Perspective through Worship • Sing truth-filled songs that exalt God’s sovereignty and majesty • Recall past deliverances to bolster present surrender (Psalm 77:11-12) • Adore God for who He is, not merely for what He gives—gratitude loosens the grip of pride Live Ready Stay pliable before the Lord. Pharaoh’s story warns that repeated resistance invites judicial hardening. Instead, welcome the Spirit’s chisel daily, and your heart will remain open, responsive, and fully aligned with God’s will. |
    |