Proverbs 16

How's your heart looking?

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“Blessed are those whose hearts are pure for they shall see God."  Matthew 5:8
Our lives are full of lists, some are stressful 'to do' lists, some are helpful, and some are funny.  I really enjoy the lists featured on Jimmy Kimmel's late night show. One of my favorites is the "Mean Tweets" segment, where celebrities, artists, athletes, and comedians read some of the worst tweets that have been sent their way. It is a great way for the guests to have a chance to respond to these mostly anonymous internet bullies in a fun, lighthearted way.  I stay up late at night just to see this list of mean tweets.  It is so funny.  
While I don't have a funny list to share, I have a helpful list that can guide you in cleaning your heart. With all the darkness around us, it helps to have a short checklist to help recenter your heart that you can quickly look at throughout the week.

6 ways to clean your heart:  627f958158478c5926a702f8c4a17abf
1)      Don’t be surprised when God has some work to do to clean up your heart.  (Psalm 51)
2)      Do spend time asking God to clean out your heart. (1 John 1:9)
3)      Don ‘t be discouraged if someone is critical of you.  We are all imperfect human beings but God is not finished with us yet. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
4)      Do remember to forgive everyone every day for any way that they may have hurt you – you cannot carry around that burden and effectively live for Christ (1 John 4:7-8)
5)      Don’t let others influence you negatively through gossip.  As tricky as it is – it leads to a path of harm for you and your family. (Proverbs 16:28)
6)      Do fill up your mind with the good.  (Philippians 4:8-9)
 
It is only with pure hearts that any church can be a healthy, happy family serving God.  It all starts with a group of people who are committed to give the hearts to God to keep them pure.
 
Your friend for the rest of my life,
Pastor Tim White

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDdfz3P_2BU
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