November 4, 2025

THE SANCTIFIED HEART

Apst. Emmanuel Osezele

KEY TEXT: 1 Samuel 16:7b KJV: "...for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."

THE HEART'S NATURE: Emotions and desires reside in the heart. Jeremiah 17:9 describes an unbeliever's heart as evil, treacherous, and deceitful. However, through sanctification, the heart can be purified and made acceptable to God. Jesus emphasized that evil thoughts and actions originate from within. God alone knows the heart, searching it and focusing on the motive behind our good deeds. Mark 7:21-23

GOD'S FOCUS ON THE HEART: God examines the heart and rewards individuals according to their conduct and deeds. Our heart reveals who we truly are, as our character and behavior are products of our heart. To be righteous and pure, our heart must be transformed. Ezekiel 36:26

ADDRESSING THE HEART: Since what's within the heart eventually manifests outwardly, it's essential to address the heart's condition. Evil should not reside in the heart of sanctified believers. Therefore, it's crucial to address the root of issues by opening our hearts to God. He understands the depths of our hearts, and we should remove any barriers and doubts, trusting Him completely. Trusting God begins within the heart. Acts 13:22

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, sanctify my heart and remove every wrong character or behavior in me that would bring shame to Your name, in Jesus Christ's mighty name, Amen.

REFLECTION:

Deuteronomy 10:16 KJV: "Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked."

PRAYER POINTS:

1. My Father and my God, purify my heart by Your fire; remove every hidden sin, pride, deceit, and bitterness that corrupts my spirit, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name. Amen.

2. O Lord, give me a new heart and a right spirit within me; let my thoughts, desires, and motives always align with Your perfect will, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name. Amen.

3. Heavenly Father, search my heart and expose every unclean thing that separates me from Your presence; cleanse me with the blood of Jesus, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name. Amen.

4. Lord Jesus, help me to walk in sincerity and truth; let my actions and intentions bring glory to Your name at all times, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name. Amen.

5. O Lord, circumcise my heart by Your Spirit and fill me with divine love, humility, and holiness, that I may serve You with a sanctified heart all my days, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name. Amen.