Having an Understanding Heart

“O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.” (Proverbs 8:5).
Do you ever feel like that-simple and foolish? I do. I have heard it said: “Christianity is a journey, not a destination.” This is a true statement not only for our Christian walk but also in our quest to become godly men. The more I learn, the more I realize how little I know. This is why it is so important for us to trust God and not lean upon our own understanding. He sees the big picture, and He possesses all knowledge. He isn’t talking about our physical heart (The organ the pumps blood throughout our body and gives us life). He is referring to our spiritual heart, the seat of our soul (the mind, will and emotions). Our heart is the center of our being- the Holy of Holies, so to speak. To have an understanding heart means that we are to have a discerning and prudent heart. Just as we maintain a healthy lifestyle in order to protect our natural heart, we must also guard what enters our spiritual heart. “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23). A discerning heart judges what is best for us and decides what to let into our spiritual man. It acts as a filter to remove the impurities that life sends our way. Some men believe they are strong enough Christians to handle anything, and they allow all manner of perversion and filth to permeate their hearts. These men are truly foolish and possess no wisdom or understanding. A godly man has an understanding heart and is careful of all he allows to enter it.