"Follow your own heart ...???"

This is what the world, the flesh and the Devil teach. It is the most pleasing thing for the natural man to hear from another's lips. It doesn't necessitate any submission to an Almighty God . It implies: "Never mind His commandments or His Will for one's life, if it feels right, then do it!" "If it feels good then go right ahead!" "Don't kill your, 'God-given talent' man!"

Sadly, many so-called Christians are following this principle in their particular endeavors in life even after being exposed to the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. That is, the Gospel of God that requires us to, "surrender" our desires, plans and efforts to the Lord of our lives. The Gospel of Truth which demands a believer carry the Cross that He (Jesus) has ordained for him to carry.

It is deplorable indeed that the flesh is allowed the opportunity to "experiment", with worldly philosophy and passions, before one realizes that Jesus' Way is best after all. Many Christians are led by their fellow Christian's opinions and not by the Holy Spirit of God, be it from books; seminars, and/or even opinionated, wordly sermons.

They may have some respect for the Word of God, certainly. However, they would much rather listen to those that tickle their itching ear with flatteries and self-serving counsel. In essence, the counsel they receive from man which aligns nicely with their heart's foolish plans and desires, will determine their backsliding for years to come or worse yet permanently, if they don't realize this and repent!

The Word of God says in Proverbs 28:26, "He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered."

The heart must be checked up on everyday to diagnose its true condition. It must then be, "treated and released", to a life of holiness. This vital check-up occurs in the, "Bible-Clinic."

ONLY THE WORD OF GOD EXPOSES THE REAL CONDITION OF THE INNER MAN AND THEN IS ABLE TO WASH IT CLEAN WITH THE TRUTH! Reading the Bible with an open heart, will let you know how the real, "you" is doing. Stripped of all the empty self-conceit, glamor and false views.

Prayer makes request of God for His Perfect Counsel regarding each and every matter of concern on a day to day basis. We have such an intimate and concerned Counselor, the Holy Spirit, Whose office is always open for direction.

Reading, studying and meditating upon the Word of God and praying with a deep reverence for God and in total sincerity will show that God's Ways are often antithetical to man's desires and plans. Knowing this truth should cause us to be circumspect in our decisions. We ought to consult God, the King of the Universe and our Father, through the Blood of Jesus Christ always. King David, though he was elevated to such a lofty status on the earth, was still humble and wise enough to, "inquire" at the mouth of God for His direction and Will, even when he went to battle against the heathen.

2Samuel 2:1 And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron.

2Samuel 5:19 And David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the LORD said unto David, Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand.    

Let us train ourselves to inquire of the Lord just like David did. You may then know of His Heart's desire for you. What He wills for you in the areas of career, choosing a life-partner, ministry etc. He can then show you how to dwell with your spouse in love and peace, how and what to purchase, how to cultivate godly friendships and associations, how to spend your leisure time etc.  

This will please our Lord Jesus very much and you will begin the blessed life of total dependency on Him for everything. You will experience that intimate and sweet heavenly communion of which this joyless, confused and wasteful world knows nothing.  

Did you inquire at the mouth of the Most High today as to how He wants to lead you according to His Perfect Will? You will be glad you did, for the Glory of the Lord will surround your heart and life!

© 2010 Pastor Pradeep Emmanuel Stephen

[Permission is granted to duplicate this article in its entirety, but only without additions, alterations or omissions of any kind, including the author and ministry name at the end.]