A New Strategy For Your Mind | Steven Furtick

In our culture today, the concept of the “heart” is understood very differently than in scripture. When I refer to the heart, I am not talking about the organ, but rather the deeper meaning behind it, which varies significantly in modern culture. In today’s society, we view the heart as something to be followed—often hearing advice like, “Follow your heart.” However, the scriptural view of the heart is quite different.

In the Bible, the heart is not seen as a master to be obeyed. Instead, it represents the center of our inner life. You might wonder, “What does that mean? Are we talking about love, passion, excitement, or conscience?” Yes, all of these aspects are encompassed in the biblical concept of the heart. It is the core of your internal world, and scripture teaches that the heart is capable of great generosity. For example, one person might say to another, “Do all that is in your mind. I am with you heart and soul.” From the heart flow the issues of life, and scripture urges us to “guard your heart.”

This idea is very different from the modern notion of “Follow your heart.” The phrase “Follow your heart” implies that your heart leads you, but the challenge with that is the heart’s limitations. Sometimes, I may feel like following Jesus, but other times I don’t. Sometimes, I feel like forgiving, but other times I don’t. Sometimes, I may want to turn the other cheek, but at other times, I might not. That is why the heart needs to be guarded.

Let’s take a moment to revisit Colossians 3. The apostle Paul writes, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ…set your hearts on things above.” Notice that “raised with Christ” is past tense—this has already happened. But setting our hearts on things above is something we must actively do. It’s not passive. “Since you have been raised with Christ, follow your heart” is not what the scripture says. Instead, it tells us to take responsibility for our hearts. Just like you wouldn’t let a toddler do whatever it wants (because they might put their finger in an electrical socket), you must watch over your heart with the same care.

Your heart is not your enemy, nor should it be blindly followed. God created your heart, and through it, He speaks to you. You might hear people say things like, “He’s just an emotional preacher,” but emotions are a gift from God. When God chose David, He said, “I have found a man after my own heart.” God desires your heart, your feelings, and your genuine praise. Quiet Christians, it’s okay to be enthusiastic and express your joy in the Lord!

The idea of setting your heart stuck with me, because although Jesus has already made you new, you still have a responsibility to actively set your heart. It’s not like the old infomercial where you “set it and forget it.” If you don’t take responsibility for setting your heart, other forces like stress, disappointment, and the enemy will take control. Your heart is not something to be feared, nor is it meant to be followed blindly. It requires your careful attention, and you are the one who must actively choose to guard and direct it.

Remember, the heart is a gift, but it’s also a responsibility.