How important is it to be pure in heart? In Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, he says that the pure in heart will see God! But what does it mean to be pure in heart? In the Greek language, this carries the connotation of unmixed motives, a person of integrity. A person whose words, actions and life are in sync. God is concerned about what you do, but he’s just as concerned about why you do it…your motives. Jesus says that blessings come when your motives and actions are pure. The world today says, “Follow your heart, if it feels good do it, please yourself.” That philosophy doesn’t denote a pure heart, only a selfish one. Seeking happiness by chasing your own desires leads to emptiness. Maintaining Godly values produces Godly motives followed by Godly actions. When we truly seek a pure heart we find blessing. This doesn’t come naturally, it’s a challenge, but one that is more than worth the effort.

Scriptures
Mt 5:8, 6:1, 31-33; He 4:13; Is 29:15-16; Pr 24:12; Jn 5:30; 1 Th 2:4; Lk 22:42; Ex 20:3; Ps 51:10

Verse
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” (Mt 5:8) “Be especially careful when you are trying to be good so that you don’t make a performance out of it. It might be good theater, but the God who made you won’t be applauding.” (Mt 6:1) Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. (He 4:13) You may say that it is none of your business, but God knows and judges your motives. He keeps watch on you; he knows. And he will reward you according to what you do. (Pr 24:12)

Thought
God knows what we are going to do before we do it, and he knows our motives. Nothing is hidden from him. When we do that which goes against our values, we feel convicted, a nagging sense that we are in the wrong. When we examine our motives, the purity of our heart is revealed. If we do something for recognition, reward, pay back, approval, etc. then it’s messed up; the motive is wrong and the heart isn’t pure. Take a serious look at why you do what you do. We may do many good things that are beneficial, but the motive can still be wrong. Jesus prayed in the Garden that he wouldn’t have to die on the cross; however, he said, “But please, not what I want. What do you want?” His motive was to please God. To have a pure heart, our priorities have to be straight; we must put God first in every area of our lives—first in our time, in our finances, in our ambitions, in our thoughts. As a result, we will see God in our lives, our circumstances and in eternity.

Questions
Do you consider what you will get out of it when you help someone? When have you done something and expected something in return? When have you done something and expected nothing in return? Do you think your motives are usually pure? If you feel you “have” to do something, is that a pure motive? If you are not thanked for something you do, are you offended? How do you feel when someone claims to have Godly values but does not live accordingly? Do you think people see your values and your lifestyle as being in sync?

Response
When you consider doing something, check your motives. If you are doing something good but it’s for the wrong reason, ask God to help you do what is good because it’s good, not for any other reason. Pray that God will work on your heart and help you to focus on pleasing him.

Prayer
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right, persevering, and steadfast spirit within me. (Ps 51:10) This I pray in Jesus’ Name, amen.