As you consider that question you may think “Since He is God there is nothing He needs.”  That is true, but is there anything God wants?  There is a common theme throughout the Bible, from Genesis to maps that reveals what God wants.

People often forget what God wants so He sends messengers to remind them.  When our lives are going well we seem to forget about God.  Difficult situations have a way of getting our attention and giving us an opportunity to come to Him.  That was the situation the nation of Judah faced and God brought the prophet Joel to remind them.  Take a look at his words,

“Yet even now,” declares the LORD, “Return to Me with all your heart, And with fasting, weeping and mourning; and rend your heart and not your garments.” Now return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in lovingkindness and relenting of evil.  (Joel 2:12-13)

Did you see from those verses what God wants?  He wants your heart – all of your heart!  He doesn’t simply want outward conformity – He wants you!  The word “heart” reflects the inner person, the core of your being.  Too many people focus on their outward appearances, they rend their garments but not their heart.

Why should you give God your heart?  Notice how Joel describes God’s character, “He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in lovingkindness and relenting of evil” – He is a God you can trust!  He is a God who cares about you!

Does God have your heart – all of your heart?  Do you need to return to Him?  He is waiting for you . . .

Dr. Rick Higgins
Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University