“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8

Most of us likely wouldn’t choose the word “pure” to describe the condition of our hearts. We know ourselves too well for that. We recognize there are impurities. Even with genuine faith in Christ and reliance on the power of the Holy Spirit, it seems an impossible proposition to maintain pure motives, attitudes, thoughts, and actions. We’re doing well if we make it through breakfast! So what, then, exactly did Jesus mean that people who are pure in heart are blessed and will see God?

The religious leaders of Jesus’ day faked righteousness by doing all sorts of outwardly religious things, like praying out loud and in public. Their hearts, though, were far from God. They were simply going through the motions. In their prayers, they did not mourn their spiritual bankruptcy—they thought they were spiritually rich. They didn’t hunger and thirst for God’s righteousness—they figured they were doing just fine on their own. Jesus sought to draw a contrast.

Purity of heart isn’t something that can be manufactured; it’s given by God to those who recognize their deep need for Him and seek His righteousness. We all struggle with impure thoughts and motives, but the pure in heart don’t try to fake it. Genuine fellowship with God is the greatest concern and supersedes any desire we might have to continue in self-righteousness. When we come to the Father in this way, with hearts laid bare and fixed fully on Him in prayer, He grants us the unhindered ability to see Him, and in effect ourselves, rightly.  

• In what ways are you sometimes tempted to simply go through the motions of spirituality? How does that impact your prayer life?

• Pray: Thank God that true purity is a gift, not something you must achieve. Ask Him to show you how you can better honor that gift in the way you love and seek Him in prayer each day.