“My son (my daughter), give me your heart…” (Prov. 23:26). “Dear children, keep away from idols–from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts“ (1Jn 5:21).
Heavenly Father, nothing can compare with the wonder and sweetness of your words to us. Though you already have us, you want us. We’re not trophies you put on a shelf, but children woven into your heart—each equally loved as much as you love Jesus. We look forward to the Day when we will never doubt this again.
Though you have given us a new heart, you know it will only be a perfect heart in heaven. A relentless battle continues for our heart’s attention, preoccupation, and affection. Sometimes it’s the temporary insanity of replacing you with people—craving the crumbs of their affection, more than we feast on the delights of your love.
Other days we think more money, a different body size, adoring children, no more aches or pains, control over people, more recognition where we work, better performance in the sport we love. Not all of these are “bad” things, but when good desires take on the level of essential need—that’s when neon warning lights should flash in our face.
What else lurks, looking to seize our hearts? During some stretches, Father, our fears push you out of our conscious life and enjoyment—but only your love can shrink and expel our fears. Certainly, unforgiveness and resentment will chill our fellowship with you, and fantasy is a poor substitute for the riches of grace you have lavished on us in Jesus. Father, we are a mess, but hallelujah, we are yours. Thank you for your passionate commitment to finish the good work you began in us. We would otherwise despair. So Very Amen.