"People are complex. Beneath the surface of life is a heart that is always on the move, looking for objects in which to trust (Luke 24:25, Romans 10:10). The heart has purposes (Prov. 20:5, Dan. 1:18), inclinations (Eccl. 10:2), intents (Heb. 4:12), imaginations and schemes (Prov. 6:18), desires (Ps. 10:3, James 4:1), and cravings and lusts (1 John 2:16, Ephe. 4:19), It is not surprising that, with such complexity, our hearts are not always immediately understandable to others, or even to ourselves (matt. 15:8, 1Cor 4:5, Prov. 16:2, Jer. 17:9). Like the bottom of a well or the roots of trees, our hearts tend to be hidden, and we can never fully know their depths. But you don't have to be a master analyst. All you need is a willingness to say, "Search me, O God" (ps. 139:23), and you will begin to see. Don't be too concerned if you feel like you are just scratching the surface. More important than knowing your motives is knowing God , and God is very generous in revealing Himself. He should be your primary focus. We should spend more time looking at Christ than in inspecting our own hearts. For if you are growing in the knowledge of God, you will be changed even to the depths of your heart."
Ed Welch, Motives : Why Do I Do the Things I Do?
The Journal of Bilbical Counseling, Fall 2003
First question after reading it was..how do we grow in the knowledge of God?
The Lord answered in His Word.
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give an account. Hebrews 4:12-13
Will you draw me into Your word that my heart may be penetrated?
I like the bit about looking at Christ than inspecting my own heart. Thanks for sharing, friend.
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