Joyce Meyer Daily Devotional February 14 2022:
God does not say He is looking for someone with a perfect performance, but rather someone with a perfect heart—a heart that desires to please Him, a heart that is grieved over sin and evil, a heart that believes in Him and His willingness and ability to forgive and restore. God knows we cannot manifest perfection. It is acceptable to be needy!
God is a God of hearts. He sees and cares about our attitude of heart even more than our performance. I have said many times that I believe God would rather have a believer who has a good heart and a less than perfect performance than one who has a perfect performance but an impure heart. It is possible to be very religious and to keep all the rules but to have a heart that is far from God.
For example, Jesus had much to say to the Pharisees of His day. They had a polished performance, kept the laws, followed all the rules and regulations, and were proud of it. They also had a judgmental attitude toward others, did not walk in love, and showed no mercy. Jesus called them whitewashed tombs full of dead men’s bones (see Matthew 23:27).
Prayer Starter: Lord, my performance is far from perfect, but in my heart, I desire to please You in everything. Draw me close to Your heart today that I may be like You, amen.
Credit for Joyce Meyer message today February 14 2022: joycemeyer.org