What steps can we take to ensure our hearts are pure before God? Setting the Scene “Now the Jewish Passover was near, and many people went up to Jerusalem from the countryside to purify themselves before the Passover.” (John 11:55) The verse pictures ordinary believers making a deliberate journey to Jerusalem for ceremonial cleansing. Their example shows that purity of heart never happens by accident; it is a conscious, obedient response to God’s call. Why Purity Matters • “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” (Matthew 5:8) • “Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart.” (Psalm 24:3-4) • “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” (1 John 3:3) Steps Toward a Pure Heart 1. Draw Near Intentionally • Those villagers “went up to Jerusalem.” Likewise, “let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith.” (Hebrews 10:22) 2. Examine Yourself Honestly • “Let us examine and test our ways, and turn back to the LORD.” (Lamentations 3:40) • Regular self-examination exposes hidden sins before they sour the heart. 3. Confess and Forsake Sin • “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9) • Confession must be paired with repentance—turning away from the sin we name. 4. Wash in the Word • Christ “gave Himself up for her to sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word.” (Ephesians 5:25-26) • Daily Scripture intake scrubs worldly residue from the heart. 5. Guard Your Influences • “Bad company corrupts good character.” (1 Corinthians 15:33) • Choose friendships, entertainment, and environments that reinforce holiness. 6. Obey Promptly • “Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (2 Corinthians 7:1) • Immediate obedience keeps the conscience clear and the heart soft. Maintaining Purity Day by Day • Keep short accounts—deal with sin at once. • Start each morning by surrendering thoughts and plans to God. • End each night with thanksgiving and reflection. • Memorize verses that target personal weak spots. • Serve others; a self-giving life resists selfish impurity. The Role of Community • The Passover pilgrims traveled together. fellowship strengthens purity. • “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Accountability partners and corporate worship sharpen personal holiness. Looking Ahead Purity of heart is both an event and a lifestyle—an initial cleansing through Christ’s blood and a lifelong pursuit empowered by His Spirit. Following the simple, intentional steps echoed from John 11:55 keeps the heart clear, tender, and ready for unhindered fellowship with God. |
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