Matthew 5:7-9

Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. — Jesus

I love God’s Word! From beginning to end, it speaks of His goodness, His Love, and His mercy. He is The source that I now run to in every situation. He is my peace.

There was a time in my life that I loved alcohol, and sadly it was what I ran to no matter the circumstance. I’m so thankful that God took away that love and replaced it with a love for His Word.

The best exchange ever – the bottle for the Bible.

Today as I stand in awe of His love, His mercy, grace and forgiveness, I now run to the Rock of my salvation Jesus Christ as the challenges of a new chapter of life unfolds.

These last few months have been a roller coaster of emotions. There are days I manage to be a champion at keeping them in check, while other days, I really stink at it – allowing toxic thoughts to turn into toxic attitudes, which certainly do not reek of love, mercy, peace or any signs of a pure heart.

But God – in His infinite love and mercy reels me back in, reminding me that He is still on the throne, still in control, and His promises are still true.

My engagement with Him and His Word is so important at all times. It establishes my identity and also ignites His love in my heart, which without, I am helpless in loving and giving mercy to others.

Emotions motivate our personalities, decisions, choices and values, and if not converted by God, will be the cause of toxic behaviors and attitudes.

They are our feelings that will give life to our reactions in all of life’s challenges.

Out of control emotions can be the most destructive force in the world, saying and doing things we can regret for a lifetime.

Theologian Shedd says, “an evil heart, if not restrained by divine grace, is sure to act wrongly, but a properly guarded heart, can be a powerful force for good.”

In Proverbs 4:23 King Solomon’s advice was to, “above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

Our actions and words are a direct reflection of our heart, and if we allow our hearts to be controlled by the Holy Spirit, we will not only experience His fruit of love, joy, peace and patience, but His fruit will be what flows from us.

All of our heart’s desires for personal fulfillment can be provided by God, and ‘He alone can fill the vacuum of an empty heart’ and fill it with His Power and Presence. It is with the heart that worship and conversion to God takes place.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”

To be blessed by God, we must be a blessing to others.