The concept of the heart's inclination is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the inner moral and spiritual orientation of a person. In biblical terms, the "heart" often represents the center of human will, emotions, and intellect. The inclination of the heart is thus indicative of one's spiritual state and relationship with God.

Old Testament Insights

In the Old Testament, the heart's inclination 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 sin and rebellion against God, a theme that recurs throughout Scripture.

The book of Deuteronomy emphasizes the importance of aligning the heart's inclination with God's commandments. Deuteronomy 30:14 declares, "But the word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart, so that you may obey it." Here, the heart's inclination is linked to the ability and responsibility to choose obedience to God's law.

The Psalms often reflect a desire for a heart inclined towards God. Psalm 119:36 pleads, "Turn my heart to Your testimonies and not to covetous gain." This prayer underscores the need for divine intervention to redirect the heart's inclination towards righteousness.

New Testament Perspectives

In the New Testament, the heart's inclination continues to be a focal point, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus addresses the heart's condition in Matthew 15:19 , saying, "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 inclined away from God.

The apostle Paul further explores the transformation of the heart through the work of the Holy Spirit. In Romans 8:5 , he writes, "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." Here, the inclination of the heart is contrasted between the flesh and the Spirit, with the latter leading to life and peace.

Paul also emphasizes the renewal of the heart's inclination in Ephesians 4:22-24 : "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." This passage highlights the transformative power of God's grace in reorienting the heart towards holiness.

The Role of the Heart in Worship and Devotion

The inclination of the heart is crucial in worship and devotion to God. In John 4:23-24 , Jesus teaches, "But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him. God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth." True worship requires a heart inclined towards God, characterized by sincerity and truth.

The heart's inclination is also central to the greatest commandment, as stated by Jesus in Matthew 22:37 : "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." This commandment encapsulates the call for a heart wholly devoted to God, reflecting a life of love and obedience.

Conclusion

The heart's inclination, as depicted in the Bible, is a profound indicator of one's spiritual state and relationship with God. It underscores the need for divine transformation and the pursuit of a heart aligned with God's will, characterized by love, obedience, and true worship.