Pure in Heart

Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!” Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered and said to Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” (John 1:47-49)

How is it that Nathanael received the truth about Jesus so readily, when all Israel failed to recognize their Messiah? It was because Nathanael possessed integrity, which Jesus immediately recognized and acknowledged — “. . . an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.” This was a man who was honest with himself and others, a man who kept his word, a straight-shooter, one who meant what he said and said what he meant. Jesus commended him for his truthfulness, because it made the way for him to see the Messiah. 

 

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." (Matthew 5:8) 

 

The Lord is willing to share life and truth with any man or woman, as long as we are honest. The moment we lie to God or ourselves, or refuse to acknowledge the truth we've been shown, we grieve the Holy Spirit away. The Lord will not partner with lies or liars, and integrity is a non-negotiable in the Kingdom. There are those who believe they can get away with something less than uprightness, but the Word makes it clear that is not so— Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. (Hebrews 12:14) 

 

May we all, like Nathanael, be guileless, open-hearted, and prepared to receive the truth when it is presented to us. And remember, Jesus is the truth.

 

Let's Pray- Father, bless me with purity of heart today. I want to see You more clearly than ever before. In Jesus alone, Amen.