Text: Matthew 19:1-6 & Ephesians 4:17-32
Three reasons we maintain a Hard Heart:
1) I BELIEVE I'm RIGHT.
2) I WANT SOMETHING.
3) I RESIST a DIRECTION.
In Matthew 19:1-6, the Pharisees tried to trap Jesus with their questions. They wanted to know if it was lawful for a man to put away (divorce) his wife for any reason. One course of action stresses the Law, while another course of action stresses people.
When we get to the place asking, "is it lawful," we know we've already missed it. They were elevating principles over people. On the other hand, to choose people over principles is also wrong. Both leave God and love out of the picture.
The Upward Progression
1) Is it right?
2) Is it God's will?
3) Is it God's desire?
The Downward Progression
1. Is it right?
2. Is it permitted?
3. Is it legal?
4. Is it what I want?
Looking for loopholes or reasons why not doing what God states, wants, or desires is an indicator of a hard heart. Note: You can be tenderhearted in one area and have a hard heart in another. When you have a hard heart, you are giving the devil an opening in your life.
Bitter, evil words are a sign of a hard heart. Kind, forgiving words are a sign of a tender heart.
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