In Scripture, the heart is more than our emotions. It is the centre of who we are: our thoughts, desires, choices and loyalties. That is why Proverbs says everything we do flows from it.
We guard what we value. We lock our doors, protect our phones and keep our important documents safe. But how carefully do we guard our hearts? Many of the struggles we face in our words, habits and relationships begin quietly, with small things we allowed in without thinking.
Guarding your heart means paying attention to what you watch, listen to, dwell on and give your time to. It means being honest with God about what is growing inside, both good and bad. It also means filling your heart with what is life-giving: Scripture, prayer, worship and healthy friendships.
A guarded heart is not a closed heart. It is a heart kept safe for God.