Hard-heartedness continually plagued the Israelites. God regularly challenged them to have soft hearts that responded by confessing sin, releasing pride, and humble obedience. The author of Hebrews, quoting from the Old Testament, also warns of the dangers of developing a hard heart. When we’re ashamed or in pain it can be tempting to turn from God.
Like Jehoiakim, the unrepentant king of Judah (Jeremiah 36), one indicator we have a hard heart is when we respond to a holy admonition with numbness and indifference. While we should respond with humility, brokenness, and a change of direction, it’s easy to respond by consistently saying “no” to God in the little things, gradually numbing our hearts to God’s leading.
Faith and trust should develop in us soft, responsive hearts, as we trust God for the outcome of difficult situations. As the good Father he is, God loves to forgive and restore us when we humbly repent.
As you start your day, watch the short clip below from the weekend’s message and consider if your heart has been hardened by sin, hurt, or exposure. If so, ask God to begin softening your heart today, inviting him to speak into your life.
