7 Keys to a Clean Heart

Jesus taught that sin originates from within us:

“It is what comes from inside that defiles you. For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness.” (Mark 7:20-22)

A clean heart is essential for a close walk with GOD. The good news is that He has provided a way for us to live with pure hearts before Him. Here are seven biblical keys to maintaining a clean heart.

1. Ask God for a New Heart

The first step to a clean heart is recognizing our need for transformation. The Bible teaches that only GOD can cleanse and renew our hearts.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10)

When we surrender to GOD, He does the deep work of changing us from the inside out.

2. Fill Your Heart with God’s Word

GOD’S Word acts like a filter, removing impure thoughts and desires while filling us with truth and wisdom.

“I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11)

Regular Bible reading, memorization, and meditation keep our hearts focused on what is right.

3. Walk in the Spirit

Our natural tendencies pull us toward sin, but the Holy Spirit empowers us to live righteously.

“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16)

When we yield to the Holy Spirit, He produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control in us (Galatians 5:22-23).

4. Guard What You Allow into Your Heart

What we see, hear, and dwell on shapes our thoughts and desires. We must be intentional about what we expose ourselves to.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23)

Choosing uplifting conversations, pure entertainment, and godly influences helps keep our hearts clean.

5. Confess and Repent Regularly

Sin builds up when left unaddressed. Regular confession and repentance keep our hearts sensitive to GOD.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

Living in repentance isn’t about guilt—it’s about staying close to GOD and keeping our hearts soft before Him.

6. Keep a Thankful and Humble Attitude

Pride, envy, and negativity can contaminate our hearts. A grateful heart stays clean by focusing on GOD’S goodness rather than bitterness or entitlement.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is GOD’S will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Practicing gratitude and humility makes room for GOD’S peace in our hearts.

7. Love God with Your Whole Heart

When we love GOD completely, everything else falls into place.

“Love the Lord your GOD with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37)

A heart fully devoted to GOD has no room for sin. Passion for Him replaces the desire for anything impure.

Final Thoughts

A clean heart isn’t achieved by sheer willpower—it’s the result of GOD’S work in us as we surrender to Him. When we ask for His cleansing, fill our hearts with His Word, walk in the Spirit, guard our influences, confess sin, cultivate gratitude, and love Him wholeheartedly, we can experience a heart that is clean and at peace with GOD.

Let’s seek Him daily and allow Him to make our hearts pure!


About Mark Cole

Jesus follower, Husband, Father, Worship Leader, Writer, Pastor, Church Consultant, Founding Arranger for Praisecharts.com, squash & tennis player, blogger & outdoor enthusiast.. (biking, hiking, skiing). Twitter: @MarkMCole Facebook: mmcole
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