“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it are the springs of life.” Proverbs 4:23, is the counsel of the wisest of all men. “For as he thinks in his heart, so he is.” Proverbs 23:7, first part
Unfortunately Solomon did not follow his own advice. His life became a shambles, and when he was converted again in his old age, he wrote the melancholy book of Ecclesiastes as a warning to others to not do as he did.
It is impossible for any man to make or keep his heart pure without divine grace because the Bible says that the heart of man is deceitful above all things and incurably wicked (Jeremiah 17:9).
A man may attempt to build a noble, virtuous character apart from the grace of Christ, but he will discover that in the fierce storms of temptation to which we are all subject in this world, he will be overthrown.
When the Lord has removed our guilt by the blood of Jesus Christ and renewed our heart, making us partakers of the heavenly gift, we are then to go on to perfection (Hebrews 6:1–5). We have a work to do to cooperate with the divine agencies seeking to bring about our salvation. If we do not do our part, then, as Jesus said in Luke 8:14, we will bring no fruit to perfection, leaving us unprepared for the Lord’s return.
Guard the avenues of the soul. Do not allow yourself to read, see, or hear anything that will suggest impure thoughts. Psalm 101:3
Pray for the abiding influence of the Holy Spirit.
Become a faithful sentinel over your eyes, ears, and all your senses so that you can control your mind and prevent vain and corrupt thoughts from staining your soul. Mark 13:37
Diligently study the word of God. Psalm 119:9, 11
Follow the principles of health reform found in the word of God—partake of nothing that will dull your powers of perception.Some might need to change jobs in order to get ready for heaven, but if your situation requires that you must live and work in Babylon—like Daniel did—call on the Lord. He will hear your petition, and provide extra grace or change your circumstances.