Peter said to Him, “Explain the parable to us.” Jesus said, “Are you still lacking in understanding also? Do you not understand that everything that goes into the mouth passes into the stomach, and is eliminated? But the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders. These are the things which defile the man; but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile the man.” Matthew 15:15-20
Jesus reminded the disciples that God looks beyond our actions and into our heart and motivations. He chastised the Pharisees for holding to traditions of man at the expense of keeping the commandments of God. Its easy to get focused on how someone else isn’t living up to our expectations of following God, while excusing our own shortcomings. What is needed by each of us is regular heart checks.
Is there anything in anyone else that has taken too much of my attention and time? Am I aware of my own shortcomings and dealing with them before God?
Lord, as this day begins, please forgive me of my debts as I forgive others. Help me enjoy this day for what it is and will contain. Oh, how I want to walk in the power of Your forgiveness and have a clean bill of health when it comes to my heart.
