Is a pure heart simply a heart free from sin? A lack of sinfulness is certainly a benefit obtained by maintaining a pure heart, but Biblical purity also encompasses a spiritual single-mindedness. An unwavering focus on God’s will and His love for us will remove instability and doubt. A pure heart generates tranquility, rest, peace, and stability. To have a pure heart is to have a steadfast spirit.
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”
Psalm 51:10 (NKJV)
God places great importance on obtaining and maintaining a pure heart. A pure heart is ruled by an attitude of, “He is my all and all.” When we are madly in love, our focus is on the lover of our soul. We want to please and honor them. Sin defiles holiness and as God is without sin, iniquity separates us from Him. Jesus is our constant intercessor and when we repent of sin our relationship with God is restored. God enjoyed His fellowship with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. God also enjoys interacting with us! Because God knows our sin nature, there are many Scriptures warning us not to sin.
“Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be.” Romans 8:7 (NKJV)
“But your iniquities have separated you from your God; And your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear.” Isaiah 59:2 (NKJV)
“Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience.” Colossians 3:5-6 (NKJV)
Purity of heart is an ongoing process in which both God and man work together to achieve success. Many scriptures show that God will cleanse by pardoning sin. However, it is our responsibility to purify our hearts. This is achieved through the confession of sin and obedience.
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” James 4:8 (NKJV)
“Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart.”
1 Peter 1:22 (NKJV)
“How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to Your word. I seek You with all my heart; do not let me stray from Your commands. I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” Psalm 119:9-11 (NIV)
Striving to obtain and maintain a pure heart is a wonderful goal but it requires effort on our part. A pure heart is not achieved with a slothful and complacent attitude. We live in a world full of sin and temptations. The devil is constantly searching for ways to separate us from God. We need to be on guard continuously and practice spiritual discernment. This means spiritual warfare!
Thankfully, God has provided spiritual armor (Ephesians 6:10-18) which provides us with defenses and an ability to attack powers of darkeness. Not only can we take back ground, but we can advance and gain ground. With the Word tucked into our hearts, we will bring down strongholds and glorify God in the process.
“Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Ephesians 6:17 (NKJV)
A pure heart keeps our entire focus on the power of God. All things are possible with God by our side. We need not fear or become anxious when trouble comes. A pure heart whispers encouragement and reminds us of God’s faithful promises. We are empowered and mighty warriors when we walk in the assurance of His truth.
“But Jesus looked at them and said to them, ‘With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’” Matthew 19:26 (NKJV)
Let our goal be that of achieving a pure heart. May we practice introspection, where we consistently examine our walk with God to see if His will is truly our undivided aspiration. Then let us go out into the world and share the Good News, loving the world as Christ loves the church. A love like His is pure and selfless.