Read: Ezekiel 36:25-28
A Heart That Responds to God
The Lord wants to give each of us a heart of flesh. In other words, He wants our hearts to remain tender, open, and responsive to Him.
When God touches a tender heart, it yields to His direction. Like clay in the hands of a potter, it can be shaped with care. Rather than resisting, a soft heart allows God to form it into the vessel He desires.
The Work of the Holy Spirit
God has given the Holy Spirit to every believer. Through His presence, we receive help to hear and respond to God.
As we follow His guidance, our hearts become softer. In addition, we become more aware of His leading. Each act of obedience also prepares us to understand more of God’s Word.
A tender heart accepts what God teaches. More importantly, it puts His truth into practice.
What Causes a Heart to Harden?
Resistance to God can cause the heart to become hard. For example, this may happen when we ignore His direction or refuse to deal with sin.
Those who remain close to Christ respond differently. When they recognize sin, they deal with it quickly. Afterward, they return to a place of obedience and fellowship with God.
Intimacy with Christ grows as we submit to Him. As a result, we become more willing to receive His correction, guidance, and blessing.
A Tender Heart Toward Others
People with tender hearts stay connected to the body of Christ. They also look for ways to encourage others and strengthen their faith.
Furthermore, they remain willing to learn. God may speak through Scripture, prayer, or another believer. Therefore, a tender person listens carefully and stays open to correction.
A teachable heart does not assume it already knows everything. Instead, it welcomes truth and allows God to bring lasting change.
Let God Shape Your Heart
This week, ask God to soften your heart as you read the Bible and pray.
When He reveals an area that has become hard, pay attention. First, listen carefully to His instruction. Then, rely on the Holy Spirit for the strength to obey.
Do not resist the work God wants to do in you. Instead, allow Him to shape your thoughts, choices, and desires. In His hands, your life can become a beautiful and useful vessel.
By Dr. Charles Stanley
Used by Permission
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FURTHER READING
Tenderhearted, Forgive One Another
When Your Heart Needs a Father
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