2 Thessalonians 3:5 May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ. English Standard Version (ESV)
In this passage the Apostle Paul asks the Thessalonian church for prayer and then offers this prayer for them and for us.
Do you think of your heart as having directions? There are certain things that our hearts are inclined to, that can turn us, that can lead us down a path. Much like a puppy can be lured with a treat, so can we. Satan is aware of this and knows what are weaknesses are. Paul is praying that it would be God that would lead and direct our hearts.
John Piper writes, "The heart has directions. It moves toward one thing or another. It moves towards what it regards as attractive and satisfying and valuable. So Paul is praying that God would give the heart a sight of the love of God as more attractive and satisfying and valuable than ordinary earthly things."
Instead of being led or tempted by "all the vain things that charm us most" may the Lord direct our hearts into the love of God, and may we hold steadfastly to it.
2 Thessalonians 3:4-6
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
4 We have confidence in the Lord about you, that you are doing and will do what we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts to God's love and Christ's endurance.
Warning against Irresponsible Behavior
6 Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from every brother who walks irresponsibly and not according to the tradition received from us.
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