Contrast

(Proverbs 6:18 KJV)  An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,

Contrast can teach us a lot.  There are times you can read a statement and the Holy Spirit brings to mind the opposite.  That hit me this morning.  This verse is talking about the “heart” (3820) that relishes “evil” (7463a).  That is the norm.  That is what I am surrounded by on the freeway going to work.  That is what I see filling my classes and sitting in authority over me at work.  This morning I was reminded that it doesn’t have to be that way.  Any or all of these people could be set free if they would bow their knee to Jesus and let the Holy Spirit do His work. 

The words of a hymn, “O for a Heart to Praise My God”, came to mind.  In this case it was the second verse.

A heart resigned, submissive, meek,
My great Redeemer's throne,
Where only Christ is heard to speak,
Where Jesus reigns alone.

Yes, we are surrounded by people who serve Satan.  They won’t admit it.  They may not even be aware of it.  It is kind of like the HIV virus.  You can be infected with it for years and not know.  The good news that we have and HIV carriers don’t is that we can be cured of our infirmity.

So?   If your heart has been set free, celebrate.  Rejoice.  If your heart is still longing to do the self centered thing, talk to God about it.  He has a cure.