King Solomon referred to the heart as the well spring of life. His father David developed a reputation of having a heart for God. The martyr Stephen wasn’t afraid to ruffle feathers calling religious leaders rigid, stubborn and possessing uncircumcised hearts. Over the course of one’s life, individuals may run from the truth for a while. Yet, conviction, guilt or a simple word will eventually cut to the heart.
When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”- Acts 2:37
One of the most famous movie lines in pop culture comes from A Few Good Men. Jack Nicholson plays Colonel Nathan Jessup called by the defense in a death of a marine under his command. Tom Cruise is Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee trying to prod the Colonel to admit he ordered a code red while under direct examination. Fed up by a series of trivial questions, Nicholson pontificates with the classic phrase “you can’t handle the truth!”
“You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit!- Acts 7:51
I think the reason why this scene and line is so often quoted relates to the impact truth has on the human heart. Despite how hard someone may try to cover up a lie, God gave human beings a conscience to cut to their hearts. Thus, when you’re misguided or in the wrong, truth has a way of softening up the heart. Therefore, the next time you are humbled, use this teachable moment to let the Holy Spirit come in to transform your hurting heart.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 