by Roby Ellis

[Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 6:11-13; 7:2-3]

Introduction

A. In this present age we learn to guard our hearts very carefully, but if we give up on believing in anything or anyone, we lose so much.

B. The truth is that there are some things that we can and must believe in; we just need the wisdom to discern what things they are (2 Corinthians 7:2-3; Galatians 4:17-18).

I. We must never close our hearts to God’s Word.

A. We must guard our hearts against Satan and his wiles (Acts 5:3; Luke 22:3-6; Philippians 4:7; Ephesians 5:11; James 4:7-8).

B. Israel could not bear to open their eyes and ears to God’s Word (2 Corinthians 3:13-17).

C. We, on the other hand, must open our eyes, our ears, and our hearts to the Word (2 Corinthians 4:6; 3:2-3).

II. There are great benefits for those whose hearts are open.

A. Open hearts are easier to counsel (2 Corinthians 2:9).

B. Open hearts are easier to correct (2 Corinthians 13:5; 7:8-11).

C. Open hearts are easier to challenge (2 Corinthians 8:3-5; 10:1-6).

D. Open hearts are easier to comfort (2 Corinthians 5:1; 6:14-7:1).

E. Open hearts can be both commended and commissioned (2 Corinthians 4:2,7; 5:10,14).

Conclusion

A. If you will let the Lord open your heart (Acts 16:14-15), you will see things you never could imagine (1 Corinthians 2:9-10).

B. One day the Lord will open every man’s heart, and the contents will be manifest to all (1 Corinthians 4:5).

C. If you will open your heart to the Lord, you will enjoy great benefits, and you can rest assured that He will never betray your trust.