Searchlight of the Heart

 

The lantern atop a lighthouse sweeps back and forth over the dark waters in continual motion. The beam guides ships through the night, but also reveals the dangers of rocks and sandbars. Without the searchlight, any vessel could be shipwrecked.

Jesus said He is the light of the world (John 8:12). We are drawn to His light. He guides us. His light also reveals the danger in our hearts that leads us toward temptation and sin.

While it is easy to spot it in others, we need to take time to be intentional about introspection and respond to the searchlight in ourselves. In the journey through Lent, self examination is essential.

Allow the searchlight of the Holy Spirit to examine our hearts.

Self examination is difficult, but it can lead to a closer relationship with Jesus. As I prayed about writing this, this searchlight revealed some unforgiveness within me. I thought I had totally forgiven a long ago incident, but realized I still held a grudge. I felt uncomfortable from the exposure, but thankful that the Holy Spirit revealed it. It wasn’t worth hanging on to the grudge. His grace removed it through forgiveness.I experienced peace and felt closer to the Lord as a result.

“Search me O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23

Allow the searchlight to reveal any hidden sin.

The searchlight beckons us to holy living, removing the barriers between us and God.  God has provided a way for barrier removal. Once the sin is identified, the next step is confession.

Consider these questions for your self-examination:

Are there barriers in my heart that need removed so I can be closer to Jesus? Do I have an an unforgiving spirit? Bitterness? Hurt feelings? Have I taken in more of the world and less of the Word of God?

Whatever the Lord reveals, lay it at His feet.

Let’s pray: Lord, I bring my heart to You. When the searchlight of the Holy Spirit reveals a danger within me, may I confess it to you. Thank You that You do not want me shipwrecked by sin. Thank You for loving me more than I’ll ever know. In Jesus’ name, Amen.