THE HEART: A Reflection on Human Nature and Truth
The Bible, especially in books like Jeremiah and Deuteronomy, draws a sharp contrast between the inner tendencies of the human heart and the unchanging standards of Yahuah (YHWH), the Most High. Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” In contrast, the commandments of Yahuah—often referred to as the Torah—are described as perfect, holy, and just (Psalm 19:7-9).
This contrast highlights the tension between human inclinations and divine instructions, between self-deception and truth.
1. The Nature of the Heart: Unstable and Self-Serving
- Deceitful: The heart often justifies sin, rationalizes disobedience, and follows fleeting emotions. It tells us what we want to hear, not what we need to hear.
- Desperately Wicked: According to Scripture, the heart is inclined toward selfishness, pride, envy, lust, and rebellion. Left unchecked, it leads people away from truth.
- Unreliable Guide: In modern culture, we are often told to “follow your heart,” but the Bible warns that doing so can lead to ruin (Proverbs 14:12).
2. The Commandments of Yahuah: Pure and Righteous
- Truthful and Unchanging: Unlike the heart, which fluctuates, Yahuah’s commandments stand forever (Psalm 119:89). They reflect His eternal will and character.
- Holy Standard: The Torah (law) defines what is good and evil. It teaches justice, mercy, love, and reverence toward the Creator and fellow humans.
- Guiding Light: Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” It leads people away from destruction and toward life and blessing.
3. Heart vs. Torah in Practice
| Deceitful Heart | Commandments of Yahuah |
|---|---|
| Follows feelings and personal desires | Follows divine instruction |
| Justifies sin or rebellion | Calls sin what it is and offers correction |
| Seeks self-interest | Seeks the will of Yahuah and the good of others |
| Leads to confusion, chaos, and bondage | Leads to wisdom, peace, and freedom |
| Changeable and emotionally reactive | Steadfast and rooted in eternal truth |
4. The Need for a New Heart
Yahuah’s ultimate solution to the problem of the deceitful heart is transformation. In Ezekiel 36:26, He promises:
“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.”
This transformation comes when one submits to Yahuah, learns His commandments, and allows His Spirit to write His laws on the heart (Jeremiah 31:33). Only then can the heart become aligned with His will.
THE HEART: A Reflection on Human Nature and Truth – Conclusion
The heart of man, on its own, is deceitful and untrustworthy. But the commandments of Yahuah are the righteous standard by which all things must be measured. While the heart pulls in the direction of personal desire, the Torah points toward righteousness, justice, and truth. To walk in obedience, one must not follow the heart blindly—but rather, allow the heart to be shaped and renewed by the enduring truth of Yahuah’s commandments.
Shalom!
