Honesty Required

“But the [Seed which fell] on the good ground, are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the Word (the Gospel message), keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience” (Luke 8:15).

It’s hard the miss the hypocrisy before our eyes in the news. The murderers hope they don’t get the death penalty. The liars in our government threaten jail when someone lies to them. The thief rages when someone steals from them. The adulterous spouse is shocked when his cheat cheats on him. And the slanderers feel free to spout unjustified hatred but cry foul when it is returned on their heads.

No wonder God is looking for an honest heart… “The (unsaved) heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately (incurably) wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I test the motives, even to give every person according to his ways, and according to the fruit of their doings” (Jeremiah 17:9,10).

What does God test the human heart with? His Son… the sinless, spotless, wonderful, Son of God, with His love, truth, and goodness. He is the Seed whose love for mankind at the Cross, provides forgiveness for the past, righteous strength for the future, and eternal good ahead; and He is offered to everyone.

Jesus said, “This is what brings condemnation, that the Light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than The Light, because their deeds were evil.” But… “To as many as received Him, to them He gave the power to become the children of God, even to those who believe on His name” (John 1:12).

Receiving Christ brings new life, a new heart, and eternal life. And any heart that is truly honest about their own sins, will welcome Him with open arms – and find Him true to His Word.

(Devotional by Lisa Cataford)