“We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians; our heart is wide open,” 2 Corinthians 6:11 ESV. On my first trip to Nebraska, I was utterly amazed by the Open Plains of the Western United States. The wheat fields spread in every direction as far as the eye can see. In like manner, the apostolic team that worked with the Corinthians was holding nothing back from them. Their hearts were wide open, so the truth could be openly seen. The Apostle Paul called upon the Corinthians to “widen” their hearts; fully open, nothing hidden, and no games. Opening our hearts to others, even with those we love and trust the most, is not easy. We do not want to disappoint others, and we frankly struggle to understand our own hearts. Yet, though it is counter-intuitive, opening ourselves to those who love us and are wise in God’s Word and ways opens a pathway of deeper understanding and healing for us. LORD, may my heart be fully open to You and to Your people.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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