In biblical literature, the concept of the heart's affection is central to understanding the spiritual and moral life of a believer. The heart, in Scripture, is often seen as the seat of emotions, desires, and will, and it plays a crucial role in one's relationship with God and others.

Old Testament Understanding

In the Old Testament, the heart is frequently mentioned as the center of human emotion and decision-making. Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life." This verse underscores the importance of the heart as the source of life and moral conduct. The affections of the heart are to be carefully guarded because they influence one's actions and character.

The Shema, found in Deuteronomy 6:5 , commands, "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." Here, the heart's affection is directed towards God, emphasizing total devotion and love as foundational to the covenant relationship between God and His people.

New Testament Insights

In the New Testament, Jesus reiterates the importance of the heart's affection in the greatest commandment. In Matthew 22:37 , He states, "‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’" This commandment highlights the heart's role in loving God fully and sincerely.

The Apostle Paul also addresses the heart's affections in his epistles. In Colossians 3:2 , he instructs believers to "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." This directive implies that the heart's affections should be oriented towards heavenly, eternal matters rather than transient, worldly concerns.

Heart's Affection and Worship

The heart's affection is integral to true worship. Jesus, in John 4:23-24 , teaches that true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, indicating that genuine worship arises from a heart rightly aligned with God. The affections of the heart must be sincere and directed towards God for worship to be authentic.

Heart's Affection and Moral Conduct

The heart's affections also influence moral behavior. In Matthew 15:18-19 , Jesus explains, "But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these things defile a man. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander." This passage reveals that sinful actions originate from a heart not aligned with God's will, highlighting the need for a heart transformed by God's grace.

Transformation of the Heart

The transformation of the heart is a key theme in the New Testament. In Ezekiel 36:26 , God promises, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh." This prophetic promise finds fulfillment in the New Covenant through Christ, where believers receive a new heart inclined towards God and His righteousness.

Conclusion

The heart's affection, as depicted in the Bible, is central to one's spiritual life and relationship with God. It encompasses love, devotion, and moral integrity, requiring careful guarding and alignment with God's will. Through the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, believers are empowered to direct their heart's affections towards God, resulting in a life that reflects His character and purposes.