Topical Bible: Character of the Renewed Heart: Wholly Devoted to God

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The concept of a heart wholly devoted to God is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting the transformation that occurs when an individual turns to God with complete sincerity and commitment. This transformation is often described as a renewal of the heart, a process that aligns one's desires, intentions, and actions with the will of God.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of a heart fully committed to God. In Deuteronomy 6:5, the Israelites are commanded, "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." This commandment underscores the necessity of total devotion, where every aspect of one's being is oriented towards God.

In the New Testament, Jesus reiterates this commandment as the greatest, saying, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" (Matthew 22:37). This reiteration highlights the continuity of this principle across both covenants and its foundational role in the life of a believer.

Characteristics of a Renewed Heart

1. Undivided Loyalty: A renewed heart is characterized by undivided loyalty to God. In 1 Kings 8:61, Solomon prays, "And may your hearts be fully committed to the LORD our God, to walk in His statutes and to keep His commandments, as at this day." This prayer reflects the desire for a heart that is steadfast and unwavering in its allegiance to God.

2. Obedience to God's Commands: Obedience is a natural outflow of a heart devoted to God. In John 14:15, Jesus states, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." A renewed heart finds joy in following God's laws, not out of obligation, but out of love and reverence.

3. Pursuit of Holiness: A heart wholly devoted to God seeks holiness and purity. In Psalm 51:10, David pleads, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." This pursuit of holiness is a continuous process, driven by the desire to reflect God's character.

4. Trust and Dependence: Trust in God is a hallmark of a renewed heart. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." This trust is rooted in the recognition of God's sovereignty and faithfulness.

5. Love for Others: A heart devoted to God naturally extends love to others. 1 John 4:7-8 teaches, "Beloved, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God." This love is a reflection of God's love and a testament to the transformation within.

Examples from Scripture

The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals whose hearts were wholly devoted to God. King David, despite his flaws, is described as a man after God's own heart (Acts 13:22). His psalms often express a deep longing for God and a desire to live in accordance with His will.

The prophet Daniel is another example, demonstrating unwavering faith and devotion even in the face of persecution. Daniel 6:10 records his consistent practice of prayer, illustrating his steadfast commitment to God.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul exemplifies a life wholly devoted to God. In Philippians 3:8, he declares, "I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord." Paul's life and ministry were marked by a singular focus on Christ and His mission.

Conclusion

The character of a renewed heart, wholly devoted to God, is a profound transformation that encompasses every aspect of a believer's life. It is marked by undivided loyalty, obedience, holiness, trust, and love, reflecting the very nature of God Himself. Through the examples of biblical figures and the teachings of Scripture, believers are called to pursue this wholehearted devotion, living lives that honor and glorify God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 9:1
I will praise you, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will show forth all your marvelous works.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 119:10,69,145
With my whole heart have I sought you: O let me not wander from your commandments.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Letter xviii. Marriage.
... union can be formed between the carnal and the renewed heart. ... if they were fostered
in the heart in childhood ... there should be something in the character of the ...
/.../a practical directory for young christian females/letter xviii marriage.htm

God's Love for a Sinning World
... that the whole of Christ"His character, His work ... Son, it is carried on with ever
renewed sacrifices and ... your ears, your hands, your mind, your heart, all; and ...
//christianbookshelf.org/finney/sermons on gospel themes/i gods love for a.htm

Covenanting Enforced by the Grant of Covenant Signs and Seals.
... formerly promised, and came under renewed obligation to ... Jews the martyr Stephen applies
the same character. ... Different from the double heart vainly attempting ...
/.../cunningham/the ordinance of covenanting/chapter xi covenanting enforced by.htm

Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount
... sinners, how could we possibly answer that character which our ... heart of him whom
God hath renewed in the ... outward service which arises from the heart; with the ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 24 upon our lords.htm

For the Candid and Thoughtful
... these things be in you, your character resembles that of ... far from the privilege of
being wholly renewed in heart ... glorified the Father with all his heart and soul ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 26 1880/for the candid and thoughtful.htm

Preached on Occasion of the Death of the Rev. Mr. John Fletcher ...
... approach, and fearing his anger would be renewed by the ... or extenuated anything in
Mr. Fletcher's character; for, indeed ... men have I known, holy in heart and life ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 133 preached on occasion.htm

From the Close of the General Conference of 1812 to the Death of ...
... interest, ambition, or worldly policy, recollect that when the heart is renewed
by grace ... to the work of the ministry was evidently of a divine character. ...
/.../chapter 2 from the close.htm

The Agreement of Salvation by Grace with Walking in Good Works
... that purpose, with the freedom of your renewed will, and with the delight of your
regenerated heart! ... relics of sin that abide in your character, that you ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 37 1891/the agreement of salvation by.htm

Epistle of Paul to the Philippians.
... against himself he can rejoice with his whole heart that the ... by virtue of its divine
nature and character, it rises ... and glory, in the energy of a renewed youth ...
/.../epistle of paul to the.htm

Against Rash and Vain Swearing.
... swear by His name." It is the character of a ... once most solemnly taken, and frequently
renewed) hath engaged ... to good manners, should find in his heart or deign ...
/.../sermons on evil-speaking by isaac barrow/against rash and vain swearing.htm