A great reference!
The verse you're quoting is Jeremiah 17:9, which says:
"The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?"
(King James Version - KJV)
This passage is a powerful reminder that, as fallen human beings, we are all prone to sin and darkness. The phrase "desperately wicked" suggests a depth of depravity and corruption that even we ourselves may not be fully aware of.
In this sense, the verse highlights the reality of our sinful nature, which is at odds with God's holiness and goodness. It's a reminder that, without the intervention of God's grace and redemption, we are all capable of great evil.
However, it's also important to note that Jesus Christ came to redeem us from this sinful state, and through faith in Him, we can be transformed and become new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). So, while our hearts may be desperately wicked by nature, they can be made new and redeemed by the power of God.
Thank you for sharing this verse!
You're thinking of a very important and relevant Bible verse!
The Bible verse you're referring to is Jeremiah 17:9, which says:
"The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?"
This verse highlights the natural tendency of human hearts to be self-centered, prideful, and deceptive. The phrase "desperately wicked" is especially striking, emphasizing the depth of corruption that can exist within a person's heart.
In this context, the word "wicked" doesn't necessarily mean evil or sinful in an absolute sense (although it can certainly include those things). Instead, it suggests a fundamental orientation towards self-preservation and self-promotion, which can lead to all sorts of negative behaviors and attitudes.
This verse is often seen as a commentary on the inherent sinfulness of humanity, which is a central theme throughout Scripture. It's a reminder that, left to our own devices, we are prone to prioritize our own interests over God's will and others' well-being.
However, it's also important to note that this verse doesn't mean there's no hope for human hearts! The Bible teaches that through faith in Jesus Christ, we can experience transformation and new life, as our old nature is put to death and a new one emerges (see Romans 12:2, Ephesians 4:22-24).
So, while Jeremiah 17:9 highlights the darkness of human hearts, it also points us towards the light of redemption and restoration that we can find in Jesus Christ.
A great topic!
In the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, there are several passages that speak to the nature and condition of the human heart. Here are some relevant scriptures:
1. **Ecclesiastes 9:3** - "The hearts of men are full of evil, and madness is in their hearts while they live; yea, while they sojourn here."
This verse describes the human heart as being prone to evil and madness, highlighting the innate sinfulness of humanity.
2. **Jeremiah 17:9** - "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?"
This passage emphasizes the tendency of the human heart to deceive and be wicked, making it difficult for anyone to truly understand their own hearts or the hearts of others.
3. **Proverbs 12:20** - "She that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a froward heart keepeth as his prey."
This verse contrasts the righteous person who speaks truth with the one whose heart is bent on doing evil, highlighting the importance of heart attitude in our words and actions.
4. **Proverbs 14:8** - "The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way; but the folly of fools shall slay them."
This passage underscores the importance of understanding one's own heart and motivations, warning against the destructive consequences of foolish decisions driven by a wicked or deceitful heart.
5. **Matthew 15:19-20** - "For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, railings; these are the things which defile a man: but they that are whole, those are whole also."
In this passage, Jesus highlights the source of sinful behavior as coming from within the human heart. He emphasizes that it is our inner thoughts and attitudes that ultimately lead to sinfulness, rather than external circumstances or influences.
6. **Mark 7:21-22** - "For from within out of the heart of men proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, false witness, railings: these are the things which defile a man: and many such things come from within, and they pollute the man."
This passage echoes Jesus' teaching in Matthew 15:19-20, emphasizing that the root of sinfulness is found within the human heart.
These scriptures collectively convey the idea that the human heart is prone to evil, deceit, and wickedness, and that understanding our own hearts is crucial for living a righteous and God-honoring life.
A great topic!
You're likely referring to Jeremiah 17:9, which says:
"The human heart is the most deceitful of all things; it is incurable."
This verse is often used to highlight the reality that our hearts are prone to deception and can lead us astray. In this context, "heart" refers to the center of one's being, including their thoughts, emotions, desires, and motivations.
In biblical language, the heart represents the seat of human decision-making, intentionality, and emotional life. So, when it says that the heart is deceitful, it means that we have a tendency to deceive ourselves or others about our true intentions, feelings, or motivations.
This idea is further supported by other passages in Scripture, such as:
* Genesis 6:5, where it's said that God saw that the "wickedness of man was great" (KJV) on the earth.
* Matthew 15:19-20, where Jesus says that evil thoughts and desires originate from within a person's heart.
* Mark 7:21-22, where Jesus teaches that what defiles a person comes from within them, including their thoughts, words, and actions.
So, what does this mean for us?
1. **Recognize our tendency to deceive ourselves**: We all have blind spots and are prone to rationalizing or justifying our sinful behaviors. Recognizing this tendency is crucial to growing in self-awareness and humility.
2. **Seek God's guidance**: Since our hearts can be deceitful, it's essential to seek God's guidance and wisdom to understand His will for our lives. This involves reading Scripture, praying, and seeking wise counsel from others.
3. **Repent and confess our sin**: When we realize that our hearts are prone to deception, it's essential to repent and confess our sin before God. This acknowledges our need for forgiveness and cleansing.
4. **Trust in God's redemption**: Ultimately, the Bible teaches that God is a just and loving God who desires to redeem us from our sinful ways (Romans 3:23-24). Trusting in His redemptive power and grace can bring hope and transformation to our lives.
In summary, what the Bible says about the heart being deceitful reminds us of our fallen human nature and the need for humility, self-awareness, and a deep reliance on God's guidance and redemption.
A great biblical quote!
"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 22:37-39).
The phrase "the heart of man is the spirit of man" is a paraphrased translation of this verse. The original Greek text is:
ἐγὼ δὲ εἴπω ὑμῖν ἀληθινήν νεκρόν ἐχέτω φῶς, μὴ γάρ φημι τὸν ἄνθρωπον κατὰ σάρκα ζῶντα βιόω ἀλλὰ ἐκ τοῦ πνεύματος ζῇ τις ἐὰν οὐ φάγῃ τὸν ἀδελφόν αὐτοῦ καὶ μὴ ἴδη ἀλλοίτινός φαγεῖν.
Translated, this means:
"I say to you, that whoever keeps my commandments and loves his fellow man as himself, he it is who loves me; and he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him."
Jesus is emphasizing the importance of loving one's neighbor (or fellow human being) with the same love and devotion that we have for ourselves. This love is not limited to those who are close to us or who are easy to love; rather, it encompasses even our enemies and those who may be persecuting us.
In this sense, Jesus is saying that our true nature - our heart, spirit, or soul - is characterized by a deep capacity for love, compassion, and kindness. This is the essence of what makes us human, and it's what allows us to connect with God and with each other on a profound level.
A great topic!
The concept that "the heart of man is wicked" is a biblical teaching that can be found in various passages throughout the Scriptures. Here are some key verses:
1. **Ecclesiastes 9:3** - "This is an evil in all that is done under the sun, that there is one fate for all humanity, so that the hearts many as well as those of kings are forever darkened." (NIV)
2. **Genesis 6:5** - "Then God saw how wicked every intent of the human heart was all the time." (HCSB)
3. **Jeremiah 17:9** - "The heart is deceitful above all things, and it is exceedingly corrupt: who can understand it?" (KJV)
4. **Proverbs 20:6** - "Many a man claims to be pure in his own eyes but is not washed of his impurities." (NIV)
These verses highlight the inherent sinfulness and selfishness that exists within every human heart, apart from God's intervention. This teaching is not meant to condemn humanity, but rather to show our need for a savior.
In biblical theology, the "heart" refers to the central, innermost part of a person, encompassing their thoughts, feelings, motivations, and will. When it says that the heart of man is wicked, it means that human beings are naturally prone to sin, self-interest, and rebellion against God.
This understanding is essential for several reasons:
1. **Recognizing our need for salvation**: If our hearts are inherently wicked, we can't save ourselves through good works or personal efforts. We need a Savior who can forgive and transform us.
2. **Understanding human behavior**: The Bible's portrayal of the heart helps explain why people behave in certain ways, even if they're not aware of it themselves.
3. **Emphasizing the importance of repentance**: Recognizing our own sinfulness is crucial for genuine repentance and turning to God.
Remember that this biblical teaching is not meant to be a pessimistic or hopeless view of humanity. Rather, it's an acknowledgment of our fallen nature, which can lead us to seek salvation in Jesus Christ.
A classic quote!
"The heart of man is in the hand of God" is a famous phrase attributed to the medieval Christian philosopher and theologian, Julian of Norwich (1342-1416). It's a central theme in her writings, particularly in her mystical work, "Revelations of Divine Love".
In this quote, Julian suggests that human beings are completely dependent on God's sovereign will and providence. She believed that our hearts, minds, and desires are all influenced by God's hand, shaping us into the people we become.
This phrase has been interpreted in various ways throughout history, but some common understandings include:
1. **Divine sovereignty**: The idea is that God is in complete control of human destiny, guiding each person's life according to His will.
2. **Human dependence on God**: This quote emphasizes our reliance on God for everything, including our thoughts, feelings, and actions.
3. **The mystery of human nature**: Julian may be hinting at the complexity of human nature, suggesting that our hearts are not fully understood by ourselves or others, but only by God.
Julian's words have inspired countless people throughout history to seek a deeper understanding of God's role in their lives and the world around them. Her philosophy has influenced Christian theology and mysticism, and continues to be studied and appreciated today.
In the Bible, the "spiritual heart" refers to a person's inner self or their relationship with God. The term "heart" is often used figuratively to describe the seat of emotions, desires, and motivations, which can be influenced by either good or evil.
Here are some key aspects of the spiritual heart in the Bible:
1. **The source of life**: In Deuteronomy 6:5, Moses says, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." The heart is seen as the source of life, where our deepest desires and motivations reside.
2. **The center of emotions**: Emotions like love, joy, and sorrow are often attributed to the heart (e.g., Psalm 119:145; Proverbs 14:13).
3. **A place of decision-making**: The heart is sometimes depicted as a court where decisions are made (e.g., Isaiah 11:1-2; Jeremiah 17:10). In this sense, it represents our innermost thoughts and intentions.
4. **The gateway to wisdom**: Wisdom is often linked to the heart in Proverbs (e.g., Proverbs 9:4; 14:33).
5. **A place where God dwells**: The spiritual heart can be seen as a dwelling place for God's Spirit, as described in Ezekiel 36:26-27 and Ephesians 3:17.
Some key Bible passages that illustrate the concept of the spiritual heart include:
* Deuteronomy 6:5 (love God with all your heart)
* Mark 12:30 (love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength)
* Matthew 22:37-40 (love God with all your heart and love your neighbor as yourself)
* Jeremiah 17:10 (the heart is deceitful above all things; only God knows our true intentions)
In summary, the spiritual heart in the Bible represents a person's inner self, emotions, desires, motivations, and relationship with God. It is the source of life, where we make decisions, seek wisdom, and experience God's presence.