Keeping Your Heart Open
I was part of a conversation recently where someone asked, “How do you keep your heart open to love?” Especially when there are so many challenges every minute? A war, gun violence, gang activity, misunderstandings among families and friends, illness, death, and so much more?
I thought about that for a long time and then saw clearly that the only way I can keep my heart open is to stay close to the God of my understanding, who is Love itself. The older I get the more I go to that source in every area of my life.
For example, one morning my car wouldn’t start and I had an important appointment that day. I freaked out for a moment but then sat back and waited. A solution came to me. I had neglected to start the car with my foot on the brake–a simple action I had been taking for years–but that day I forgot. Silly me but a loving God who reminded me what to do.
Another day I needed some information about a medication I’m taking. I felt God’s prompting to ask the pharmacist while I was in the drug store. Voila! He had a clear and simple answer that resolved my concern.
And on it goes. I now start my day with a prayer of gratitude and a petition to secure everything I think, say, and do with an open heart and a willingness to love–no matter what. No getting upset. Just proceeding with love.
When I think about the war, or a school shooting, or a challenge with material things like my car, or human beings–especially those I don’t know and likely never will, I’m doing my best to send love to that person or situation. With God in control all will be well at the right time and in the right place–for God is love. And if I trust Him, my heart will stay open to love.
How do you keep your heart open to love? I’d love to hear your story. 🥰
Lovely!
My own morning prayer is one I learned from Charles:
“Lord, guard, guide and govern my life – and the lives of those I love- today.”
Knowing He is the Blessed Controller of the universe, allows me to put my cares and concerns into His loving hands.
How sweet to hear you learned this prayer from dear Charles. I love it.
beautiful, Karen. Only in control of my own actions. Good solution—stay connected with God.
Yes. we are in charge of our own actions first and foremost.
Thank you for your thought-provoking question about what we do to keep our heart open to love.
Bottom line I look at my heart and think of a garden. I am vigilant about pulling out weeds of resentment, hurt feeling or any other undesirable feeling. I allow myself to feel my feelings and then pray and ask God what my part is and do my very best to keep my side of the street clean. Sometimes the Lord will tell me that I need to talk it out with the person, other times He tells me to keep quiet and pray. Journaling my feelings helps and also asking the Lord to remove my resentment. Then I pray blessings upon that person. Also, if I’m judging myself and judging others it is a block and I ask the Lord to remove those thoughts. Sometimes the thoughts don’t leave quickly. I also ask that God gives me eyes to see that person as He sees them and ears to hear what the Lord would have me hear. Also, I ask that God would give me the words to say if I need to talk to them. Without the Lord my heart would not be open to love. I’m thankful that Jesus is my Lord and savior and He cleanses my heart and teaches me how to keep my heart open to love.
Such a beautiful ‘share’, Sandy. Thanks for being so open.
Love this and you.
Smiles, BRC
Thank you, Beth.
I COULD SAY: “AMEN to Sandy’comment but I will add: “Create in me a clean heart O God and renew a right spirit within me”.Thanks Karen, Love you, Margaret
I love this reponse, Margaret. Thank you.
You are always such a blessing with your words and the way you live your life. Thank you for sharing your heart with us. God’s love shows through you. That is the greatest way we can live. “Loving God and loving others”. You do both!! God bless you, Karen!!
What a special comment, Etta Mae. You’ve touched my heart.