An Understanding Heart

God places an emphasis on our heart and its condition. He says our hearts, in Adam, are made of stone, but that He will give us a new heart. (Ezekiel 11:19, 18:31, 36:26). With our hearts we serve God. (Romans 7:25, 10:10). The heart is established with grace (Hebrews 13:9).

We start with the illustration given by David. He is said to have a heart after God’s own heart. (1Samuel 13:14, 16:7, 16:12,13). Our minds may rebel at this, but a broken heart will understand. David knew how to repent.

Solomon knew the key to following God. He did not ask for worldly riches or power—instead he asked for an understanding heart. (1Kings 3:7-9). Literally, he asked for a hearing heart. God was so pleased that He gave him wisdom and discernment, along with riches and honor and the potential for long life. (1Kings 3:10-14).

Some principles that we discover in life as we search for understanding of God’s ways.
(See John 21:1-17).
Peter had denied Christ three times, just as Christ predicted. He is likely in dismay, confused, and full of doubt. He goes fishing, for that is presumably all that he knows to do. (Been there?)
21:3. Our best efforts sometimes produce nothing.
21:4,5. Jesus always knows our need.
21:6. Jesus fulfills our need.
21:7-9. We sometimes don’t recognize Him until our need is fulfilled.
21:10-12. Jesus prepares a place for you. Just bring yourself. He will provide more than what was expected.
21:15-17. Jesus may ask you what you have learned from all of this. Do you have an understanding heart? Do you love Him? How do you love Him? Be honest with Him.

Our life experiences teach us dependence upon Him, if we would only listen (hear) with our heart.

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