It's What's Inside That Counts

“Pay attention to what I say…listen closely to my words and do not let them out of your sight…and keep them within your heart,” wrote Solomon.

Most of us grow up hearing the command: “Pay attention.” It is a normal part of everyone’s vocabulary – especially parents. And there are times when we do “pay attention” and accept the “command” and times when we do not. “Paying attention” is a choice, and we all have memories of when we wish we had chosen to do that when we were asked to “pay attention to….” And, there are times when we did pay “attention” and it made no difference.

“Sight” and “heart,” however, when attached to “pay attention” elevates its significance. We have talked about the word “heart.” It refers to our “emotions and wills,” our “attitudes and values.” In other words, our heart is “us” – our entire being. It is our “inner self” or “the real me.” It’s who I am when no one is watching me.

Planting “wisdom” within our hearts is a very important responsibility. There is an obvious cycle that flows from the head to the heart and from the heart to the hand. So, in essence, we can actually “see” what comes from our hearts and the hearts of others. We may never see anyone’s “heart,” but we can certainly “see” what they have “planted” in their hearts.
 

The same is true of us. Others who watch us – our families and friends, our associates at work and anyone anywhere knows what’s “in” there by what we do. Out of the depth of the hearts come “sights and sounds.”

Prayer:  Lord, we can never fool You, and we only fool others briefly. We only fool ourselves. Forgive our folly. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today:  Proverbs 4:20 My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words.