HEART – “the vital center and source of one’s being, feelings, and emotion” The American Heritage Dictionary, 4th edition
My Heart - A desire for an attitude of commitment to God begins within the heart, the inner most part of one’s self. David’s prayer for a clean heart could be a good part of one’s daily prayers. Psalm 51:10: Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. NIV
My Heart and My Word James 1:26 – If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. NIV
Words reflect the attitude and commitment to God within one’s heart. “Words can quickly destroy any Christian witness if they are not Christlike.” …footnote from Disciples’ Study Bible.
Ephesians 4:29 – Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Paul wrote against “foul-mouthed” talk, but he goes on to instruct followers in the way of positive talk. The talk of Christians should be characterized by words which build up, encourage, and are beneficial to others. … paraphrased from The Letters to the Galatians and Ephesians by William Barclay, p. 158
Prayer: Lord, I repeat another of David’s prayers for myself: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14 NIV
Anthem Text: Lord, You have searched me, You know everything I do. When I rise, when I lie down, You are with me. Before I speak, You hear me. Your presence follows day by day. O know my heart, O God. If I ascend into heaven, You are there on the wings of the morning or in my deepest despair. His hand shall lead me, His right hand will guide me, though darkness should cover me, light shall surround me, And I will praise the Lord, I will praise Him with my whole heart!
Hymn spotlight: #399 – Take My Life and Let It Be by Frances Ridely Havergal (1836-1879)
Havergal attempted to live a life fully consecrated to Christ and to those she saw in physical or spiritual need. Though her health was frail and she lived only 43 years, she learned several modern languages as well as Hebrew and Greek. She was also a singer and known as an accomplished pianist.
Each of this hymn’s stanzas are about what it means to surrender to Christ.
The first stanza consecrates the singer's life and moments, as well as physical body -- hands and feet.
The second stanza may be a bit autobiographical when knowing of Havergal's vocal abilities, consecrating her voice and lips. The stanza goes on with personal possessions, silver and gold, and then intellect. The final stanza consecrates personal attributes at the very core of one's being -- will, heart, love, and self. …paraphrased from - www.umcdiscipleship.org