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“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” Proverbs 4:23   

Six years ago, when my mom passed away, my sisters and I made a commitment that we would intentionally get together at least once a year since we are so spread out between California, Tennessee, and Michigan. Winter Break provides the perfect opportunity for us to meet and enjoy the sunshine and sand at Daytona Beach.

However, four years ago, Hurricane Ian struck this area with a vengeance, compromising a high percentage of aging seawalls as well as the foundations of many residences along Daytona Beach. Six weeks later, Hurricane Nicole arrived over the ocean, and her strength was more than many of the already compromised structures could withstand. As a result, many homes, condominiums, seawalls, and pool decks collapsed into enormous piles of concrete rubble.

Each year since, we have watched the community rebuild, using hurricane-resistant materials such as concrete and steel. The most significant improvement, however, has been the installation of brand-new engineered seawalls. These “state-of-the-art” barriers now surround every property, acting as a protective shield between the ocean’s waves and the dwellings they protect.

In a similar way, just as these seawalls protect their designated physical structures, Scripture reminds us to guard and protect our hearts.

This week, the sixth graders and I have been studying 1 Samuel, and one of the verses that generated a great discussion was:

“The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).

Everything in our lives flows from the heart, which serves as the command center of our being. If left unguarded, the heart can become vulnerable, allowing the enemy to sneak in through moments of frustration, hurt, anger, etc.  

But how do we guard our hearts? By being cognizant of the things that we watch, the commentaries that we listen to, the conversations that we contribute to both online and in person, the activities that we participate in, etc. If God is honored in those situations, your heart remains guarded. But if the Lord is not glorified in those circumstances, it’s time for a heart check up and maybe time to do a heart cleanse.

As we journey through this Lenten season, guard your heart, not by your strength, but by God’s. Fill it with His Word, trust His guidance, and let His love be your shield. In doing so, you will walk in peace, wisdom, and purpose, reflecting His light in every area of your life.

God’s richest blessings during this Lenten season as you reflect on His great love for you,

Mrs. Palka