“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” - Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)
You’ve likely heard of porch pirates who steal packages left on your doorstep. In the days before Amazon, this wasn’t an issue, but with the rise of online shopping, it has turned into a profitable crime. The pirates frequently look for specific items—like electronics or other pricey items—and resell the merchandise or return it for cash. With the rise in this crime, there has been a rise in home security devices like video doorbells and cameras, which not only record images of the thieves but notify us immediately when someone purloins your package.
Occasionally, these thieves leave something in place of what they’re stealing as a prank. Of course, these items have little value and are meant to add insult to the person expecting the package. Imagine looking forward to coming home to your new 65” flat-screen smart TV only to find an empty box.
Today’s verse concerns guarding something far more critical than our Amazon package—our hearts. While our hearts are of far greater value, we may be lax in keeping the original porch pirate, Satan, from stealing them and leaving unwanted things masquerading as the things we think we want behind. As we use our Ring doorbells to protect our packages, we must also be vigilant in protecting our hearts from temptations.
Gracious Father, help us diligently guard our hearts. Protect us from the schemes of the evil one who seeks to corrupt and destroy. May we turn to Your Word for assistance and rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance. May our hearts be kept clean, a holy sacrifice acceptable to You, so that all we do reflects Your glory. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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