You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack

Do Not Ignore Warning Signs

It is with good reason that the Scriptures give high priority to the condition of the figurative heart.  At Jeremiah 17:9, 10, we read: "The heart is more treacherous than anything else and is desperate.  Who can know it?  I, Jehovah, am searching the heart, examining the kidneys, even to give to each one according to his ways, according to the fruitage of his dealings."  But besides examining our heart,  Jehovah also makes loving provisions to help us in making the needed self-examination.

Through "the faithful and discreet slave,"  we are given timely reminders.  (Matthew 24:45) For example, one of the chief ways in which our figurative heart could deceive us is by causing us to indulge in worldly fantasies.  These are unrealistic imaginations, daydreams, idle mind wanderings.  Such can become very harmful, especially if they arouse unclean thoughts.  Hence, we must reject them completely.  If we hate lawlessness as Jesus did, we will guard our heart against indulging in worldly fantasies. -Hebrews 1:8, 9. 

Additionally, we have the help of loving elders in the Christian congregation.  While the concern of others is certainly appreciated, the responsibility to take care of our figurative heart finally rests with each one of us personally.  It is up to us individually to "make sure of all things" and to 'keep testing whether we are in the faith.' -1 Thessalonians 5:21; 2 Corinthians 13:5.

Next time: You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack - Safeguard the Heart

The Watchtower, 2001