The primary function of a perimeter fence is to prevent trespassing or theft and/or to keep children and pets from wandering away. It essentially keeps out the bad while protecting the good. Funny enough, it puts me in mind of the human heart...well, actually, my heart. As a blogger, I endeavor to talk about things that are relevant, virtuous, and unbiased (or honest). Ultimately, I hope to move the needle of the heart in a positive direction. With that said, it is no secret that the current season of our nation has the human heart in a vulnerable position. Many people are compelled to defend a conviction that they’re passionately committed to; while unaware that bitterness, anger, and unforgiveness is lurking at their door, seeking to take residence. Nowadays, even more, I find myself eager to meet with God in the morning to pray because He acts as a perimeter fence around my heart, preventing anger and hatred from trespassing and stealing from its premises. You see, your heart possess the core of who you are, and when the wrong stuff takes residence it has the potential to eat away at everything good. It reminds me of Cain in the Bible, who killed his brother Abel because he allowed jealousy to enter and reside in his heart. The boys brought an offering to God; Cain from the produce of his farm and Abel from the best of his animal herd. While God approved of Abel’s offering, he did not approve Cain’s, which left Cain sulking and offended. God, in His fatherly kindness, reminded Cain that if he does well he’d reap well. Most notedly, he warned him that sin is eagerly waiting to trespass the premise of his heart. Sadly, Cain didn’t heed God’s counsel but allowed jealousy to enter and destroy the good in his heart, which resulted in him murdering his brother. Friend, allow me to gently encourage you to erect a perimeter fence around your heart, which houses everything good and precious about you. And should this fence already exist, I implore you to care and watch over it ... make sure it’s sturdy and strong ... protect that which is good.
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. (Prov. 4:23 NLT)