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 teachers. 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 what 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” elevate 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 the “real me,” our “true self” or the “sum total” of all I am: word, thought, and deed. It’s who I am when I think 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 – or, our behavior. 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 will know eventually, what’s “in” our hearts by what we do and say. “Out of the depth of the heart” come words and deeds that are the real “me!”

Prayer: Lord, we can never fool You, and we only fool others briefly. We only fool ourselves if we think we are more than we are. Forgive our folly and cleanse us! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Proverbs 4:20-21 My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart.