“And I saw a great white throne and the one sitting on it” (Revelation 20:11)
Thrones have existed throughout the history of human civilization. Nations, kingdoms, principalities, territories, empires have them. And upon every throne sits a ruler. These thrones come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. They can be simple or ornate. Those who reign upon thrones have supreme power. Some rulers have sat on thrones for over 72 years. And while some fought through bloody conflicts to seize a throne, others were given their royal seat when they were but babies.
We had the opportunity to go to England several years ago, and while we were not allowed to view Queen Elizabeth’s throne, we were able to view her crown. It is kept under ultra-monitored guards at the Tower of London. That crown represents the fact that Elizabeth II is the queen regnant and ruler who reigns upon the throne of England.
Do you know what else has a throne? Our hearts. The throne in our hearts dictates what we do, say, and think. It directs our desires, our motives, our impulses. From our heart our aspirations and longings spill out into our lives.
Let me ask you to use your imagination and get a mental picture of the throne in your heart. Then let me ask you who you see seated on that throne. Jesus taught his disciples in Matthew 15 that, “from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying and slander.” That is what our heart looks like when our sinful nature is reigning in there. However, when Jesus Christ is seated on the throne of our heart, we will be steadfast and pure. “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10)
Who we are, what we do and say, flows from our heart. And what flows from our heart depends on who is sitting on the throne of our heart. We need to ask ourselves the question – If Jesus Christ is truly sitting on the throne of my heart, why don’t I act more like he is? Ouch!
Darlene