Training a Fixed Heart for God

Aug 12, 2024

Lecture Notes

Key Themes

  • Importance of a fixed heart
  • Personal anecdote at the park
  • Training the heart to praise God
  • Encouragement and personal reflection
  • Scriptural references

Personal Anecdote

  • The speaker encounters an elderly woman power walking and singing at the park.
  • Despite her age (65-70), she moves quickly and uses ankle weights.
  • The woman sings a religious hymn: "I sought the Lord and he heard me".
  • This encounter encourages the speaker to reflect on his own spiritual state.

Main Ideas

Fixed Heart

  • Definition: A heart that is trained to praise the Lord regardless of circumstances.
  • Autopilot: The idea that one's heart can be trained to automatically respond with praise and faith.
  • Training: Practicing praise and faith consistently to make it second nature.

Importance of Training

  • In Difficult Times: When unsure or in trouble, one should lift their hands, sing, speak in tongues, or recite scripture.
  • Self-Encouragement: Sometimes, you have to lay hands on yourself and speak the Word of God over yourself.

Scriptural Reference

  • Psalms 57:7
    • "My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise."
    • Emphasizes the need for a heart that confidently praises God.

Life Application

  • Focus on God's Heart: Praise God for who He is, not just for blessings received.
  • Purpose and Pulse: If you have a pulse, you have a purpose given by God.
  • Ignore Worldly Opinions: Follow God’s purpose for you regardless of criticism.
  • Final Accountability: Ultimately, we answer to God and seek His approval.

Metaphor: Thermostat

  • Thermostat Analogy: Just like setting a thermostat to achieve a desired temperature, one must set their heart on God's word to maintain spiritual well-being.

Encouragement

  • Stay Fixed: Keep your heart set on God to navigate the challenges of life.
  • Intentionality: Be intentional in fixing your heart on God's word and promises.
  • Rubber Band Metaphor: Just as a rubber band holds things together, God's word holds us together.

Closing Thoughts

  • Commitment: Commit to living for God and trusting in Him wholeheartedly.
  • Faith Acronym:
    • F.A.I.T.H.: Forward Action In Trusting Him.
    • Alternative Meaning: Fear Ain't In This House.

Action Item: Comment “my heart is fixed on the Lord” to indicate commitment.