Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. ------- Proverbs 4:23
As already claimed as the highest discipline that we should have and practise, I find myself reminding myself and others to do this.
Why do I, in the first place, get upset over something by only what I perceive it to be? Feeling upset leads to sadness, feelings of disappointment and destitution, to anger, to bitterness, and so and so forth.
Why do we fall into sin by wanting our own way?
Why do we allow ourselves to be in situations where temptations lurk at every turn?
Because we don't do what the above says!
Guarding the heart means starting right from the innermost parts of your soul, your emotions. Seek and let godly counsel guide you through, with the peace of God if you know it. If not, ask for it to be given to you when you do the right thing, you'll recognise it soon.
When you guard inwardly, you guard outwardly as well. Both are in tandem with each other. Do the opposite of what you'd do. Don't put yourself in situations you cannot handle.
I'm writing this in hope that it'll apply to all situations, whatever you might be in, and to remind myself as well. Guard your heart for what? You might ask. Besides, isn't being true to yourself the best thing to do for you and others? You're right, but is your true self pleasing to God, the one who loves you unconditionally, who made you and holds your destiny? And therefore will it help you or others if it ain't right to the King?
Those are questions I ask myself when I'm in there, just something to keep us all in check, like I told someone today. And all I want is for us His bride and army to live right, start living right, learn to live right.
Rebellion ain't cool. It's plain crass. So let's live it up guys! I really mean this!
