Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth, keep corrupt talk from your lips.Proverbs 4:23-24 (ESV)
The condition of our heart is ultimately reflected in our speech and conduct (Luke 6:45). For good to come out of our lips that blesses, edifies, and strengthens others, we must guard our hearts (v23) by letting God's Word fill our hearts (v20-22). We can keep our guard by following His instructions within our hearts and being careful to live according to them. Guarding our hearts before letting truth in will result in keeping the truth out or guarding our hearts for the wrong reasons e.g., building walls to keep others away. Verse 23 must be read in the context of the preceding verses.
Father, help us to keep our hearts pure, our hands clean, and our speech blameless by constantly meditating on Your word, which brings life. Holy Spirit, empower (convict) us to live godly lives for, without holiness, no one can see God (Hebrews 12:14). In Jesus' name, Amen.
Catherine Ng
