A Transformed Heart

A Transformed Heart

Speaker: Pastor Stefan Davis
Date: February 2, 2025

A hardened heart isn't just a problem for non-believers; even disciples can struggle with it. Pastor Stefan Davis reminds us that our actions flow from our hearts. We must receive and recognize the unchanging truth that God loves us, which leads to softening our hearts. Above all, we must guard our hearts, for everything flows from them. When we soften our hearts, we put on our new selves.

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on this sermon:

Day 1: Embracing God's Love

Reading: 1 John 4:7-21

Devotional: Today, we focus on the foundational truth that "we love because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19). God's love is not just a concept but a transformative power that softens our hearts and enables us to love others. Reflect on how God has demonstrated His love in your life. How has this love changed you? Consider areas where you might be resisting God's love or struggling to extend it to others. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you receive God's love more fully and to let it flow through you to those around you.

Day 2: Guarding Your Heart

Reading: Proverbs 4:20-27

Devotional: Proverbs 4:23 instructs us to guard our hearts above all else, for everything we do flows from it. In a world full of distractions and negative influences, maintaining a soft and receptive heart toward God requires intentional effort. What are you allowing into your heart through your thoughts, media consumption, and relationships? Take time to evaluate these areas and ask God for wisdom in setting boundaries. Consider implementing practices like memorizing Scripture or limiting exposure to harmful content to help keep your heart tender and aligned with God's will.

Day 3: Putting Off the Old, Putting On the New

Reading: Ephesians 4:17-24

Devotional: Paul's words in Ephesians remind us that following Christ involves a radical transformation - putting off our old self and putting on the new self. This is not just about behavior modification but a deep, internal change that affects our desires, thoughts, and actions. Reflect on areas in your life where you still see the "old self" at work. What would it look like to "put on" Christ in these situations? Ask the Holy Spirit to renew your mind and empower you to live out your new identity in Christ.

Day 4: The Power of Forgiveness

Reading: Matthew 18:21-35

Devotional: Forgiveness is at the heart of the gospel and a key to maintaining a soft heart. Jesus' parable of the unforgiving servant challenges us to extend the same grace to others that we have received from God. Are there people in your life you're struggling to forgive? How might holding onto unforgiveness be hardening your heart? Take time to pray for those who have hurt you and ask God to help you release any bitterness or resentment. Remember, forgiveness is a process and often requires ongoing choice and divine help.

Day 5: United in Christ

Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27

Devotional: As believers, we are called to "life together" as part of the body of Christ. This passage reminds us of our interdependence and the importance of unity in diversity. How connected do you feel to your local church community? Are there ways you've been holding back from full participation? Consider how you might deepen your involvement, whether through joining a small group, serving in a ministry, or simply reaching out to encourage another believer. Ask God to show you how you can contribute to building up the body of Christ and experience the richness of life in community.