Friday, March 6, 2020

 
2/06/20   
“The Hidden Man of the Heart”
 
by Dona Hake
 
In the scripture we are going to read here in first Peter he calls all believers to humility, submission, and service: everyone to God, citizens to rulers, slaves to masters, wives to husbands, and younger to elders.  Let us read as he addresses the woman to focus on the hidden part of her heart.
 
“In the same way, wives, you should patiently accept the authority of your husbands. This is so that even if they don’t obey God’s word, as they observe your pure respectful behavior, they may be persuaded without a word by the way you live. Don’t focus on decorating your exterior by doing your hair or putting on fancy jewelry or wearing fashionable clothes; let your adornment be what’s inside— the real you, the lasting beauty of a gracious and quiet spirit, in which God delights.”      1 Peter 3:1,3-4 The Voice Translation

But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
1 Peter 3:4 – BRG translation

While the woman is being addressed here, this is most certainly a truth that applies to all of us. We must all be careful to nurture, guard and build strong the hidden man of our heart. Our culture puts so much emphasis on the adorning of the outward man and woman…what you look like, what you have, etc… Beware of your focus for it will rob your hidden man if it is in the wrong place.
 
As we purpose to stay centered on His will and watching over our hearts we will all possess the beauty of a heart that is pleasing to Him. This will most certainly happen if one keeps their focus only on tending to the issues of their heart. This is where our Lord places great value, and He desires we guard it with all diligence. Today let us meditate on hiding His Word deep within us, and guarding that hidden man of the heart!