The Reflection of the Heart Through Speech
I’ve been immersed in Christianity and surrounded by Christian individuals my entire life, experiencing many of its forms—from Evangelical to LDS (back in the day)—and I’ve met people from all walks of life within this realm. Most of my interactions revolve around conversations, and I wholeheartedly agree with Yeshua, who famously said to the Jews of His day,
"O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh." – Matthew 12:34
What do I mean by agreeing with Yeshua? Throughout any given day, all people have the freedom, even the liberty (if American), to speak their minds and hearts, essentially releasing the contents of their heart into the listening world. I’ve encountered believers who seem to focus solely on politics, diets, and lifestyles—deeming some acceptable and others not. Occasionally, I meet a believer who talks exclusively about money, vacations, materials acquired, and their children's accomplishments. Over time, it became clear to me that the topics people choose to discuss reveal much about what their hearts are set upon.
Patience and Progression in Faith
As believers, we are all in a state of change and hopefully progression, which teaches us patience with those less mature in the faith. These individuals have yet to focus their heart and soul directly on Him and to then freely speak of Him. This understanding comes with time, and it is not my intention to police or govern conversations through cultural appeals. Instead, let the mouth speak the heart's desires and let all believers learn to listen.
Discerning the Focus of Conversations Among Believers
While listening to what people genuinely care about, we can identify certain topics in "Christian conversation" that serve as distinct indicators, even warning signs, of the individual's mind and heart. When conversations focus on His grace, His love, the value of life, and the joy of His truths, rejoice! However, when topics veer into the following areas, listeners might choose to exercise patient, gentle caution.
The Realm of Christian Esoterica
I refer to these cautionary topics as Christian esoterica because they often represent concepts that are not fully understood, bring division, and, if understood, will never truly offer any sort of valid enlightenment. These subjects include:
- God’s creation of the heavens, earth, and all within
- The shape or configuration of the earth
- The Flood and associated factors
- The Nephilim
- Councils of Heaven
- Melchizedek priesthood
- Pre-existence
- Heaven
- Satan
- Non-canonical and Pseudepigraphal books
- The Red Heifer
- Third Temple
- Interpretations of the Book of RevelationA symbolic prophecy fulfilled in 70 A.D.—not a prediction of future global events. through modern eyes
- Spiritual gifts
- Spirits, demons, ghosts, and apparitions
- Exorcisms and demon possessions
- Predestination/Election
- Dietary topics and lifestyles as believers
- Political factions
- Rosicrucians, Knights Templar, Illuminati, Freemasonry
Emphasizing Core Scriptural Topics
It's fascinating to observe how many people who claim to walk in faith focus on these subjects when Scripture offers us little insight into their truth and how knowing them seems irrelevant compared to more important topics that Scripture addresses at length, including:
- God
- Yeshua
- Faith
- His will and desires
- Love
- Service
- Encouragement
- Light
Even the writer of Hebrews emphasizes moving on to perfection, leaving behind the elementary teachings once they are understood, to focus on more significant matters (Hebrews 6:1-3).
Conclusion: The Essence of Faith Beyond the Esoteric
In conclusion, those who navigate the esoteric waters of Scripture often lack comprehension of the faith's most essential elements, choosing to pursue the unknowable endlessly. It's important to remember that understanding such topics is limited and, therefore, unworthy of our time and focus, especially given the many biblical subjects that can be known, understood, and mastered.
Understanding Psalm 23
The passage begins with an illustration of trust and peace: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake."
David speaks to the role of the Lord as a shepherd—a guide and protector, providing for all needs without fail. The imagery of green pastures and still waters conveys a sense of tranquility and abundance, emphasizing the shepherd's provision and care.
Comfort in Times of Trouble
"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of deathSeparation from God—now overcome. Physical death remains, but it no longer separates us from life with God., I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." In life's darkest moments, there is reassurance in the presence of the Lord. Despite walking through the "valley of the shadow of death," the speaker expresses a profound confidence and lack of fear, bolstered by the guiding and comforting tools of the shepherd—the rod and the staff.
Assurance of Everlasting Care
"Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over." The psalm continues by highlighting the abundance and honor bestowed even in the midst of adversaries, with the act of anointing symbolizing blessing and appreciation, and the overflowing cup representing abundance. "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever."
The passage concludes with a powerful affirmation of ongoing grace and favor, with the promise of dwelling in the Lord's house eternally, signifying an enduring relationship and continual care. Psalm 23 provides a framework of understanding and assurance of the Lord's constant support and provision through each stage of life.
