The most defining aspect of your life is not how wealthy you, your occupation, or any other worldly measure, but is your heart open to Jesus? Are you willing to have Jesus as your Savior?
The Scriptures defines our life as a flower or a shadow because compared to eternity it is so short. Job14:2 We blossom like a flower and then wither. Like a passing shadow, we quickly disappear. [1]It is only during this brief time on earth that we can ask Jesus to be our Lord.
Those whose hearts are open to Jesus and become people of faith are changed forever. When we believe in Jesus the Holy Spirit comes and lives in our heart! Our life is changed in the present, but also in the future. When believers in Jesus die, they go to heaven. If your heart was hardened toward Jesus and you remained in unbelief when you die you are headed for hell for all eternity. How many people are in hell today that wished they would have opened their heart to Jesus?
The Pharisees’ Hearts Were Not Open to Jesus
There is an expression, “A cat in the garage does not make it a car.” The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were educated people who knew the Scriptures. They should have had a personal relationship with the Lord. Although they knew about God most of them seem to be unbelievers. At least Jesus continually confronts them about their faith.
Why didn’t they believe in the God they knew so much about? It had to do with their heart. While they knew about God, they did not know Him personally. I can know about a current popular person in the world and tell you about their life, but that does not mean I know them personally.
Actions Reveal the Heart Condition
Jesus forgave a paralyzed man of his sins. When He did, He was met with contempt by the religious leaders because their hearts were hardened toward God. While other people praised God when Jesus forgave him and healed him, they complained.
Luke 5:21 But the Pharisees and teachers of religious law said to themselves, “Who does he think he is? That’s blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins!” 22 Jesus knew what they were thinking, so he asked them, “Why do you question this in your hearts? 23 Is it easier to say ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or ‘Stand up and walk’? 24 So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!” [2]
Open Your Heart to Jesus
How do I open my heart to Jesus? All you need to do is be receptive to the work of the Holy Spirit. When we are, the Lord is free to work in our life to draw us faith and transform our lives.
Is your heart open to Jesus? Find out more here: https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/seeking-the-lord-changes-my-life-paralyzed-man-friends
[1,2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.
.