“But the words you speak come from the heart—that’s what defiles you.” – Matthew 15:18
The Importance of Inviting Jesus In
As we think about having Jesus in our hearts, inviting Him in is the first step we take in our faith. It’s not merely about acknowledging His existence; it’s about opening ourselves to a relationship that transforms us from the inside out. When we invite Jesus into our hearts, we are allowing Him to guide our thoughts, actions, and desires. As a community, we recognize that this act of faith is foundational. It begins our journey of trusting Him, listening for His guidance, and letting His love shine through us.
John 1:12
“But to all who believed Him and accepted Him, He gave the right to become children of God.” – John 1:12
Revelation 3:20
“Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in and we will share a meal together as friends.” – Revelation 3:20
Romans 10:9
“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” – Romans 10:9
Galatians 2:20
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” – Galatians 2:20
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
The Transformation of Our Hearts
Having Jesus in our hearts leads to an incredible transformation. This transformation isn’t just superficial; it dives deep into our character and daily life. As we embrace Him, we start to reflect His love, mercy, and compassion. When we allow Jesus to dwell in our hearts, our attitudes change, and we are compelled to express love and kindness towards others. Together, we can be that light in the world, showcasing the change that comes from a heart filled with Jesus.
Ezekiel 36:26
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” – Ezekiel 36:26
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on Earth.” – Colossians 3:2
Philippians 1:6
“Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:6
Psalms 51:10
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” – Psalms 51:10
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:2
Staying Connected With Jesus
Maintaining our relationship with Jesus in our hearts is essential. Just as a plant needs nourishment and sunlight, we need to feed our spirits with prayer, Bible study, and fellowship. Staying connected allows His presence to influence our choices and guide our lives. When we actively cultivate this relationship with Him, we become stronger in our faith and more attuned to His voice, helping us in our daily walk.
John 15:4
“Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.” – John 15:4
James 4:8
“Come near to God and He will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” – James 4:8
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Psalms 119:11
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” – Psalms 119:11
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
The Power of Jesus in Our Hearts for Others
As Jesus fills our hearts, His love overflows into the lives of those around us. It changes not only us but also those whom we interact with every day. We become vessels through which His love can flow, extending grace, kindness, and service to our neighbors. When we allow Jesus to work through our hearts, we become powerful instruments in His hands, reflecting His love to the entire world.
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
John 13:34-35
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.” – John 13:34-35
1 Peter 4:10
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
The Assurance of Christ in Our Hearts
As we carry Jesus in our hearts, we are reminded that we are never alone. His presence offers us comfort, direction, and assurance in every part of our lives. This truth strengthens our faith, knowing that He cares for us and walks alongside us during hardships. Together, we can support each other in this assurance, reminding one another of the unfailing love that comes from Jesus in our hearts.
Philippians 4:7
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7
Psalms 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalms 34:18
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Hebrews 13:5
“Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” – Hebrews 13:5
The Eternal Promise of Having Jesus in Our Hearts
Having Jesus in our hearts brings us the hope of eternal life. This promise is not only for after our time on Earth but it also brightens our daily lives with the assurance of God’s promises. We can face challenges with courage, knowing we have an eternal home awaiting us. Together, we can share this hope with others, letting them know about the joy of having Jesus in their hearts too.
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
1 John 5:11-12
“And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.” – 1 John 5:11-12
Titus 1:2
“In hope of eternal life, which God, who never lies, promised before the ages began.” – Titus 1:2
Romans 6:23
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 6:23
2 Timothy 1:10
“But it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” – 2 Timothy 1:10
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the significance of having Jesus in our hearts fills us with hope and joy. By inviting Him in, we make room for transformation, connection, and the assurance of His love. This relationship guides us in our daily lives and impacts those around us. Let us encourage one another to seek Him earnestly and share the light of His love—both the joy of now and the promise of eternity.
As we grow in faith, we can explore deeper topics, such as friendship with Jesus or freedom in Jesus. There is so much richness and guidance to discover through His Word!