Across many verses and passages, the Bible emphasizes the importance of guarding our hearts. But what does that mean, and how do we do it?
The first thing to understand is that in scripture, references to the “heart” aren’t solely about the organ that pumps blood and keeps us alive. Instead, it represents the core of our being. Our thoughts, desires, emotions, and even our free will all come from the heart. Another way to think about it is that references to the heart can be read as "heart and soul." Therefore, if your heart is unguarded and corrupted, it will inevitably affect every aspect of your entire being.
So, how do you guard your heart? The Bible offers multiple ways to protect this vital part of ourselves and live lives that are pleasing to God. And, even in modern times, each way represents good advice. Below, we’ll take a look at five ways to guard your heart according to scripture.
Be Mindful of Your Thoughts
If we allow negative, impure, or ungodly thoughts into our hearts, they will eventually manifest into something harmful. This is why being mindful of our thoughts is a crucial first step in guarding our hearts.
Philippians 4:8 provides a guide for cultivating healthy thought patterns. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
This verse encourages us to focus only on our positive thoughts. If you’ve struggled with negative or intrusive thoughts, become more mindful of what you let into your mind. Often, the worst thoughts creep in unnoticed. But if you recognize them as they arise, replacing them with thoughts that align with Philippians 4:8 is much easier.
Choose Your Friends Wisely
As humans, we are social beings. We naturally absorb the attitudes and values of those we spend time with. Choosing our companions wisely is critical for guarding our hearts. 1 Corinthians 15:33 warns us, “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.”
In other words, bad company can corrupt good character. Spending time with people who consistently engage in harmful behaviors can slowly erode your moral compass. That’s why it’s important to choose your friends and companions wisely. But that doesn’t mean isolating yourself. Just be more discerning about the company you keep.
Of course, ungodly behavior is all around us. Limiting your interaction with people who consistently bring sin into your life is okay. You don't have to be rude about avoiding certain people. You just have to learn how to set firm boundaries.
Flee Temptation
While being mindful of our thoughts and choosing our companions wisely are crucial strategies, sometimes the best course of action is to flee. Recognizing temptation and avoiding situations that lead to it is key to guarding your heart. 1 Corinthians 10:13 speaks to this. “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”
What this verse tells us is that we are not alone in our struggles. God will help us flee temptation with “a way of escape” to help us "bear it" and fight temptation.
Immerse Yourself in Scripture
Never forget that the Bible is a powerful weapon in the fight for our hearts. Look to Psalm 119:11 for evidence. “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” What this tells us is that when we immerse ourselves in scripture, we are filling our minds with God’s thoughts. So, how can you do this?
Start by setting aside time daily to read and meditate on the Bible. Carve out some of that time to reflect on what you read. Ask God to reveal its meaning and application to your life. You might even try memorizing some favorite passages. Repeating these verses throughout the day ensures you’re always ready to combat negative thoughts or temptation.
Pray Continually
Prayer is the number one way we exercise our relationship with God. It’s how we express our needs and receive God's guidance. As Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
By making prayer a regular part of our daily lives, we invite God to protect us. In addition, prayer strengthens, comforts, and protects us from attacks on our hearts and souls. Talking to God throughout the day is one of the best ways to seek guidance and receive the protection we need to guard our hearts.
Above All Else, Guard Your Heart
Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” That’s how we know that scripture equates the heart with the soul. The heart is at the core of your very being so it makes sense to guard it well. The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone. The Bible offers a number of tools, from being mindful of your thoughts to continual prayer. Find the right combination of these methods to ensure you persistently guard your heart against sin and temptation.
