Remove the Heart of Stone

"The greatest mistake any Christian can make is to substitute his own will for the will of God." - Harry Ironside

Most everyone can recall a time when they stubbornly fought against something that either they didn't agree with, or refused to do or say. Some might call this "sticking to your guns," or adhering to one's principles or values.

This reluctance, or unwillingness might not, under certain circumstances, be such a bad thing to possess, such as in those that pose a possible damaging or injurious outcome to one's health, livelihood, or personal relationships.

However, there is no place for obstinacy when it comes to Jesus Christ. Those who choose to turn away from or not accept him demonstrate a stubbornness of the heart that prevents Christ from entering their life (Ezekiel 36:26).

The biggest hurdle for them to clear is putting their faith in what we do not see (Hebrews 11:1). We read in Scripture how hard it was for some to, both, accept Jesus and what he had to say (John 6:66; Zephaniah 1:6).

This, even though the Son of God was actually living, breathing, walking, and talking right among them! How much more difficult, though not impossible, it is to remove the stubbornness that holds men's hearts hostage today.

We, who believe in Jesus Christ have our work cut out for us. Still, we must persevere in trying to reach out to unyielding hearts (Mark 16:15). Sadly, even with the Holy Spirit empowering us some will remain unchanged.

Stubbornness of the heart prevents one from accepting Jesus' invitation of salvation (Romans 10:9-10), and the promise of eternal life ( 1 John 2:25). "...that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you...(Ephesians 1:18).

Scripture: Psalm 81:11-12; Romans 2:5; Acts 7:51; Jeremiah 7:24; Isaiah 48:4

Prayer: Dear Jesus, may my heart always be full of Your love and mercy, amen.

Stay blessed,

Becky Lynn