As you read through the Bible, you begin to see themes that are repeated throughout scriptures.  In Proverbs the readers are encouraged to protect their hearts because it is understood that how they behave is based on the condition of their heart.  We see this same theme taught by Jesus and the Apostle Paul.  Jesus said in Matthew 15:18-19 that evil thoughts and actions come from the heart.  And then in Luke 6:45 he states that those who have good treasure in their heart produces good, and the person who has evil treasure produces evil.  And then Paul slightly changes the focus by stating in Philippians 4:7 that God will guard your heart and mind through your faith in Jesus Christ.

So how do you guard your heart?  By growing in your faith in God through a relationship with Jesus Christ.  It is by seeking God that transformation happens from the inside out.  One of my favorite verses is found in Romans 12:2. It teaches that we are not to conform to the world, but be transformed by seeking God’s will in all things. The struggle of attempting to be good without seeking God, is that the world or culture can say that some things are good, but go against God’s will.  And there are some things that God says are good, that go against what the world believes is right. We cannot trust our own common sense of right and wrong, if we are totally disconnected from God.

It is impossible for our culture not to have influence over our beliefs and behavior.  If you grew up in a different country with different influences, you would not be the same person.  At the same time, I would contend that a committed Christian from a different country would still find common beliefs that dictate behavior with a committed Christian in America.  Therefore, study God’s scripture and seek God through worship.  Honestly look at the condition of your heart.  Do you have hatred or prejudices toward a person or group of people?  Are you letting anxiety dictate how you treat others?  What is the condition of your heart? As you experience the peace of God in your life, it allows God to work through you to communicate His peace and love for the world. 

Read Romans 12:1-3; Philippians 4:4-9