An inclination is “a feeling, preference, or tendency to do something.” (source: Cambridge Dictionary) It is good to consider what the heart is most inclined toward because that is what most seems to set the course of one’s life.
One of the psalmists wrote. . .
“(36) Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain!” (Psalm 119:36 ESV)
What a good prayer to have our heart drawn to pray. Why? Because it is far too easy to get sidetracked by the things of the world. What draws the heart most, God or goods? Are we drawn more to God’s Will or the world’s wealth? Are we inclined most toward what brings satisfaction to our own personal wants or to the things of God that bring deeper and more lasting satisfaction?
Remember Paul’s statement about true gain where we read. . .
“(6) But godliness with contentment is great gain, (7) for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. (8) But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. (9) But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. (10) For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.” (1 Timothy 6:6-10 ESV)
Though some focus on the gain in a worldly sense, Paul revealed such an inclination of heart can actually lead to great loss. Therefore, to what do we feel most inclined? When faced with choices, what is most frequently preferred? As we go about our daily life, what do we tend to go after most?
Paul went on to have Timothy urge the wealthy. . .
“(17) As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. (18) They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, (19) thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” (1 Timothy 6:17-19 ESV)
Let us remain mindful of turning from selfish desires to incline our heart toward God and His Will! In this way we will be taking hold of the truest life that leads to the eternal life God’s heart longs for us to receive!
Have a great day WITH THE HEART DRAWN TO WHAT IS AT THE HEART OF GOD’S HIGHEST DESIRES!
Carl
