Heart-set over Mind-set

In the Bible, Job is a remarkable figure—a man of God who, despite unimaginable suffering, stands firm in his faith. Job had everything—wealth, family, and health—but all of it was taken from him. In his moment of greatest despair, even when his wife urged him to "curse God and die" (Job 2:9), Job faced one of the hardest battles: choosing between his heart and mind. His mind might have told him to give up, to believe that God had abandoned him, but his heart, filled with God's word and goodness, reminded him of who God truly is.

Job's story is a testament to the strength that comes from having God's word written on your heart. It’s a reminder that, even in our darkest moments, when the weapons of the enemy seem to prosper, the Armor of God is our shield.

Yesterday evening, as I went through my normal routine—spending time with my family, focusing my energy on tasks that are meaningful, and cleaning—I suddenly felt overwhelmed. I questioned whether I was capable of fulfilling the purpose God had called me to. Doubt crept in, and my mind began to tell me that I wasn't enough, that I should give up because the path I was on was too difficult.

At that moment, I found myself at a crossroads, much like Job. My mind told me to quit, that I wasn't cut out for this, but my heart, where God’s word resides, whispered something different. It reminded me that I am called, that I am chosen and that I can do this.

I had a choice to make: follow my mind, which was filled with fear and doubt, or follow my heart, which was filled with God's promises. I chose my heart. I remembered that Psalm 46:5 states, "God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day." This verse is a powerful reminder that no matter what we face if God is within us, we cannot fail. 

Job's story and my personal experience both highlight the importance of standing firm in faith, even when it’s hard. James 1:2-4 encourages us to "consider it pure joy... whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." Like Job, when we face trials, our faith is tested, but it also grows stronger. When the enemy attacks and doubt fills our minds, we must turn to what is written on our hearts: God's word. It is this foundation that will keep us strong, allowing us to persevere through trials and emerge victorious.

Remember, when faced with persecution and hurt, listen to your heart, where God's word is written, rather than your mind, which is prone to doubt. With God within you, you cannot fail.