Understanding the hidden depths of our hearts.
Introduction
Welcome to this session on heart physics and understanding internal vows. In this session, we will explore the difference between sin, iniquity, and transgression, focusing specifically on transgressions and the internal vows we make. By examining these concepts through Scripture, reflection, and practical action points, we aim to help you grow deeper in your faith and strengthen your foundations in Christ.
Scripture Reading (10 minutes)
Deuteronomy 23:21-23
"When you make a vow to the Lord your God, you shall not delay to pay it, for the Lord your God will surely require it of you, and it would be sin in you. But if you refrain from vowing, it shall not be sin in you. You shall be careful to perform what goes out from your lips, just as you have voluntarily vowed to the Lord your God what you have promised."
Matthew 5:33-37
"Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.' But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God's throne; or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. All you need to say is simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one."
Psalm 51:1-2
"Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin."
Reflection Questions (10 minutes)
Reflect on the following questions and write down your thoughts in a journal:
What are some internal vows or promises you have made to yourself, others, or God?
How have these vows impacted your life, both positively and negatively?
In what ways do these internal covenants reveal a dependence on self rather than on God?
How can you transfer these vows from self-dependence to God-dependence?
Action Points (10 minutes)
Identify and Surrender Internal Vows:
Take time to identify the internal vows you've made. Write them down and surrender each one to God, acknowledging your inability to fulfill them without His strength.
Daily Prayer:
Commit to a daily prayer asking God to reveal any hidden transgressions and to cleanse your heart from all unrighteousness. Use Psalm 51 as a guide.
Scripture Meditation:
Meditate on Matthew 5:37, focusing on letting your "Yes" be "Yes" and your "No" be "No." Reflect on the simplicity and truthfulness of living a life without making rash vows.
Seek Accountability:
Share your journey with a trusted friend or mentor. Ask them to pray with you and hold you accountable as you work through surrendering these internal vows to God.
Replace Internal Vows with God’s Promises:
Find Scriptures that speak God’s promises over your life. For example, instead of vowing to provide for your children by your own strength, meditate on Philippians 4:19: "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing the hidden transgressions in our hearts. We acknowledge that we cannot fulfill our vows and promises without Your strength. Help us to transfer our trust from ourselves to You. Cleanse us, Lord, and lead us into a deeper dependence on Your grace and provision. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Follow-Up
Continue to journal your reflections and prayers throughout the week. Be mindful of any new internal vows you might be tempted to make, and practice surrendering them to God immediately. Use this workbook as a guide to keep your heart aligned with God’s truth and live a life built on a secure foundation in Christ.
By consistently engaging with these readings, reflections, and actions, you will begin to see transformation in your heart and life, aligning more closely with God’s will and experiencing the freedom that comes from relying fully on Him.