OPEN HEARTS

 February 3, 2026

PROVERBS 4:23

“Keep your heart with all vigilance,

for from it flow the springs of life.”

To experience the full and abundant life God desires for us, we are invited to live with open hearts. That’s not always easy. Many of us carry real wounds, hurts from our past, disappointments, losses, that teach us to protect ourselves. Without even realizing it, we can begin to move through life with our hearts guarded, surrounded by emotional walls. That response is understandable. But if we’re not careful, those same walls meant to protect us can also keep us from noticing God’s gentle presence among us.

God is always calling us deeper. He longs for us to know the richness of the abundant life He promises. He invites us into a relationship marked by openness and trust, a place that is safe, uncluttered, and honest. It’s there, in that vulnerable space, that we discover the blessings of an open heart: life, hope, peace, and joy.

Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 4:23, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Life flows from the heart, both physically and spiritually. Just as the heart pumps blood throughout the body, our inner life shapes everything we think, say, and do. In the Bible, the “heart” often refers to the very center of who we are, our thoughts, emotions, and moral choices. It is the place where God continually speaks, inviting us to listen. What I have learned is that God desires to meet you not on the surface of your life, but at its very core.

Jesus echoes this invitation in John 15:4 when He says, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me.” You see, God longs to be close to you, to guide you, speak to you, pour out His love upon you, and remain with you day by day, moment by moment. 

So today, let us take time to open our hearts before our loving God. Let us ask Him to gently reveal any walls we have built, any places where fear or hurt has closed us off. And as we do, may we experience the newness, healing, and life that only God can give.

Let's Pray

Gracious God,
Gently show us where we have built walls,
and meet us there with Your love and healing.
Help us to abide in You each day.

Amen.