The concept of "heart inclination" in the Bible refers to the inner disposition or tendency of a person's heart, which influences their thoughts, actions, and relationship with God. The heart, in biblical terms, is often seen as the center of one's being, encompassing emotions, will, and intellect. The inclination of the heart is a critical theme throughout Scripture, as it determines one's alignment with God's will or rebellion against it.

Old Testament Insights

In the Old Testament, the inclination of the heart is frequently addressed in the context of obedience and faithfulness to God. Genesis 6:5 states, "Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great upon the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was altogether evil all the time." This verse highlights the natural tendency of the human heart towards evil, a condition that necessitated divine intervention through the flood.

Deuteronomy 30:14 offers a contrasting perspective, emphasizing the possibility of a heart inclined towards obedience: "But the word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart, so that you may obey it." Here, the inclination of the heart is linked to the accessibility of God's commandments and the potential for a life aligned with His statutes.

The Psalms frequently explore the theme of heart inclination, often in prayers for divine assistance in maintaining a righteous heart. Psalm 119:36 pleads, "Turn my heart to Your testimonies and not to covetous gain." This verse underscores the psalmist's desire for a heart inclined towards God's word rather than materialism.

New Testament Perspectives

In the New Testament, the inclination of the heart continues to be a significant theme, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus addresses the issue of heart inclination in Matthew 15:19 , saying, "For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander." This statement reveals that the heart's inclination is the source of sinful behavior, emphasizing the need for inner transformation.

The apostle Paul further elaborates on this concept in Romans 8:5-6 : "Those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace." Here, Paul contrasts the inclinations of the flesh and the Spirit, highlighting the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in redirecting the heart's inclination towards life and peace.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The inclination of the heart is not solely a human endeavor but involves the work of the Holy Spirit. Ezekiel 36:26-27 prophesies this divine intervention: "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. And I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes and to carefully observe My ordinances." This promise of a new heart and spirit signifies the transformative work of God in aligning the believer's heart with His will.

Practical Implications

The inclination of the heart has practical implications for daily Christian living. Believers are encouraged to guard their hearts diligently, as Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life." This vigilance involves regular self-examination, prayer, and immersion in Scripture to ensure that one's heart remains inclined towards God.

In summary, the inclination of the heart is a foundational biblical concept that underscores the importance of inner disposition in one's relationship with God. It highlights the natural human tendency towards sin, the possibility of transformation through divine intervention, and the ongoing responsibility of believers to cultivate a heart aligned with God's purposes.