Hardness of the heart is more deadly than hardening of the arteries.

“The devil made me do it.” That isn’t just a line made famous by comedian Flip Wilson. It is also a popular excuse that many people use when they are confronted with their own sinful conduct. It makes for a good punch line, but it is a lousy excuse.

The devil doesn’t make you do anything. Your heart does. (I’m not talking about the blood-pumping muscle in your chest; I’m referring to your inner spirit.) The heart of every person is inclined toward sin from the moment of birth. It doesn’t get any better on its own. A heart transplant is required if you are going to enjoy real life. Your sinful heart must be replaced with a heart filled with God’s love.

“The human heart is most deceitful and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?” Jeremiah 17:9