Gratitude for the family of God
Importance of a heart-to-heart relationship with God
God's unchanging nature and desire for personal connection
Dynamic relationship between God and His people
Adam's temptation and humanity's struggle
True salvation as becoming like Christ
The law of the Spirit of life empowers believers
Balance between reverence for God and closeness as a father

1b:T563,

Stephen emphasizes the importance of the heart in our relationship with God, highlighting that God desires a deep, heart-to-heart connection rather than superficial interactions. He references several scriptures, including Proverbs 4:23, which instructs us to guard our hearts, as they are the source of life. Stephen explains that God looks beyond outward appearances and focuses on the heart, which is central to our spiritual well-being. He discusses how the heart encompasses our conscience, mind, will, and emotions, serving as a link between our spirit and soul. The heart's condition affects our ability to receive and express God's life within us. Stephen warns that a hardened heart can block spiritual growth and emphasizes the need for regular self-examination and openness to God's voice. He encourages believers to turn their hearts to the Lord, allowing Him to transform and fill them with His love. Ultimately, loving God with all our heart is essential for spiritual vitality and the ability to impact others positively.

Importance of the heart in spiritual life
Scriptural references emphasizing heart condition
Heart as the link between spirit and soul
Consequences of a hardened heart
Need for self-examination and openness to God
Encouragement to love God with all our heart

A New Heart