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When we come to God in prayer, it’s easy to focus on the outcome, what we’re asking for, and how badly we need Him to move. But Scripture reminds us that how we come matters just as much as what we bring. The condition of our heart, our posture before Him, makes all the difference.

A right heart doesn’t mean a perfect one. It means a heart that’s humble, honest, and aligned with God’s will. A heart that trusts more than it demands, forgives even when it’s hard, and seeks His way over our own. God is always listening, but He draws near to those who come with sincerity and a heart of surrender.

Let’s take a deeper look at what it means to have a heart that’s right before God, especially when it comes to our prayers.

Matthew 11:25 – “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.”

The Bible instructs us to forgive others so that we can be forgiven, but this verse begins by discussing prayer. 

1 Samuel 16:7 – For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.

Having unforgiveness in your heart will undermine your confidence in God. You will not be able to stand confidently before God if your own heart condemns you.

1 John 3:21 – Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God.

The good news is that God has put you in charge of your heart; you get to decide its condition. His Word tells us to take great care of our hearts and the importance of having a right heart.

Proverbs 4:23 – Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.

In other words, everything in this life will flow from your heart, so make sure it’s right before God. The Bible tells us that when we have sinned or done things that are not pleasing to God in our hearts, we can repent, and God, who is faithful and just, will forgive us.

One of the best ways we guard our hearts is by being intentional about what we allow into them—what we listen to, dwell on, and speak over ourselves and others.

Luke 6:45 - A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.

Your heart is like soil, and every thought, word, or influence you entertain is like a seed. If you're constantly feeding on negativity, fear, or offense, that’s what will take root. But if you feed on God’s Word and choose forgiveness, grace, and truth, then righteousness and peace will flourish.

Guarding your heart doesn’t mean hardening it; it means being watchful, discerning, and surrendering to the Holy Spirit. It means allowing God’s presence to fill the deepest places within, so that nothing bitter, broken, or prideful can take hold.

When your heart is aligned with God, your prayers will reflect His will, your steps will follow His path, and your life will overflow with His peace.

Take a moment to get your heart right before Him today, and purpose to keep it that way. 

Ask yourself daily:
     1. Is there anything in my heart that’s been left unchecked?
    2. Am I allowing peace to rule, or have I made room for resentment, fear, or pride?

Invite God into that space and let Him do the work only He can do.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I ask You to forgive me of any sin in my life today. I examine my heart; if there is anything unpleasing to You, please forgive me. I also ask that You empower me to keep my heart right and to walk in Your truth. Remove anything in me that doesn’t honor You, and fill me with Your love and wisdom. Let my life flow from a heart that has been shaped by Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.