Topical Bible: Decision: Opposed to not Setting the Heart Aright

◄ Decision: Opposed to not Setting the Heart Aright ►

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In the biblical context, the concept of decision-making is deeply intertwined with the orientation of the heart. The heart, in Scripture, often symbolizes the center of one's being, encompassing mind, will, and emotions. A decision, therefore, is not merely a cognitive act but a reflection of the heart's alignment with God's will.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible frequently contrasts those who set their hearts aright with those who do not. In Psalm 78:8, the psalmist warns against being like the stubborn and rebellious generation whose "heart was not loyal to God, whose spirit was not faithful to Him." This verse highlights the importance of a heart that is steadfast and aligned with God's purposes.

Setting the Heart Aright

To set the heart aright is to align one's inner being with God's commandments and desires. This involves a conscious decision to follow God's ways, as seen in Joshua 24:15, where Joshua challenges the Israelites: "But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve." Here, the act of choosing whom to serve is a decisive moment that reflects the heart's orientation.

Consequences of Not Setting the Heart Aright

The failure to set the heart aright leads to spiritual instability and rebellion. In Hebrews 3:10, God expresses His displeasure with the Israelites: "Therefore I was angry with that generation, and I said, ‘Their hearts are always going astray, and they have not known My ways.’" This straying of the heart results in a lack of understanding and obedience to God's ways.

Examples of Decision and Heart Orientation

1. David: King David, despite his failures, is often seen as a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). His decisions, particularly his repentance after sin, reflect a heart that seeks to be right with God.

2. Solomon: In contrast, Solomon's heart turned away from God in his later years due to his foreign wives, as noted in 1 Kings 11:4: "For when Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the LORD his God."

3. Daniel: Daniel exemplifies a heart set aright through his unwavering decision to remain faithful to God, even in a foreign land. Daniel 1:8 states, "But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine."

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The New Testament emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers to set their hearts aright. In John 16:13, Jesus promises, "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth." The Spirit aids believers in making decisions that align with God's truth and righteousness.

Practical Implications

For believers, setting the heart aright involves regular self-examination, prayer, and immersion in Scripture. Decisions should be made with a heart that seeks God's glory above all else, as instructed in Proverbs 3:5-6: "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."

In summary, the biblical perspective on decision-making underscores the necessity of a heart aligned with God. Decisions are not isolated acts but are deeply connected to the spiritual state of the heart, with significant implications for one's relationship with God and spiritual journey.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 78:8,37
And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not steadfast with God.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Church Union (Continued).
... I am opposed, therefore, to the substitute offered by ... them, on the receipt of the
decision of the ... We would, therefore, not only respectfully recommend to the ...
/.../fagg/forty years in south china/ix church union continued.htm

An Account of the Organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church ...
... act of Mr. Wesley and his associates in setting apart Dr ... the parties refuse to abide
by such a decision, he shall ... a moment after is too late." Is it so or not? ...
/.../chapter 3 an account of.htm

Augustin's Part in the Controversy.
... should be informed on all the points necessary to his decision. ... to let men see that
he did not so love him ... whence any one could see that he opposed the grace ...
/.../augustine/anti-pelagian writings/iii augustins part in the.htm

The Pilgrim's Progress
... But yet I came away with a heavy heart, not for that ... am come, with all the desire
of my heart, and will ... Thy setting out is good, for thou hast given credit to ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the pilgrims progress.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... 'Setting their feet upon the necks of kings, And through ... never was hardened.'[22]
This is directly opposed to his ... I protest before God, I lie not, neither do I ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm