Facing the Reality of Human Nature and the Path to Hope
The Human Heart: A Portrait from Ecclesiastes 9:3
Ecclesiastes 9:3 delivers a sobering message: “The hearts of the children of man are full of evil, and madness is in their hearts while they live, and after that they go to the dead.” This verse compels us to examine the true nature of humanity. Our deepest problems are not external, but reside within—the heart is where confusion, corruption, and self-deception dwell. Jeremiah 17:9 further exposes this truth: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” Genesis 6:5 echoes the same: God saw that every intent of human hearts was continually evil. Scripture consistently shows us that, left to ourselves, our hearts are bent away from goodness and toward brokenness.
Deceit and Desperation: Our Condition Unveiled
Jeremiah’s warning, “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” reveals the depth of our struggle. We often confuse evil for good, make peace where there is none, and put our trust in our own abilities or righteousness. Instead of correcting us, our conscience may even lead us further astray. This is a desperate situation: we cannot fully comprehend ourselves, nor can we predict what we might do in moments of temptation. If we struggle to see our own errors, it is even harder to rely on the hearts of others.
Yet, God sees every secret of the heart—no evil is hidden from Him. While outward appearances may deceive people, God is never fooled. Pursuing dishonest gain may bring temporary satisfaction, but ultimately it leads only to disappointment, guilt, and loss.
Self-Reliance Versus Hope in God
The Bible warns against trusting only in ourselves. Those who rely on their own strength and wisdom are compared to barren shrubs in a desert, fruitless and withered. Souls that depend on human effort alone cannot flourish in the richness of grace and comfort. By contrast, those who place their hope in God are like trees that are always green and fruitful, no matter the season. God supplies peace and satisfaction, making up for any lack we experience in life. Instead of anxiety, there is steadfastness; instead of emptiness, there is fruitful living marked by holiness and good works.
Examining Ourselves with Humility
Scripture calls us to honest self-examination. Left on our own, our hearts overflow with evil, and the prosperity of sin may tempt us to defy God. On the surface, the righteous and the wicked might appear to fare alike, but after this life ends, God Himself will distinguish between those who are precious and those who are vile. The difference will be profound.
The Universal Struggle: Lessons from Romans 1
Romans 1:28-32 paints a vivid picture of what happens when humanity turns away from God. The apostle Paul explains that when people reject God and choose darkness over light, they fall into greater depravity, acting against reason and their own well-being. This isn’t a mere historical observation—it describes all of humanity, regardless of background, until we surrender ourselves fully to Christ and are renewed by Divine power.
No one is exempt from the struggle with sin or the tendency to turn away from God’s will. These passages remind us to look within, recognize our deep need for grace, and seek deliverance from our condemnation—not through our own efforts, but through faith and transformation found in God.
Conclusion: Wisdom for Eternity
We are wise if we use what we have honestly and generously, living with eternity in view. Our hearts, left unchecked, will mislead us, but God’s truth exposes our need and offers real hope. Though we may never understand all the mysteries of our hearts or the hearts of others, we can find security, peace, and fruitfulness by placing our confidence not in ourselves, but in God, who knows all and renews those who trust in Him.
Minister A Francine Green
December 2025
afrancinegreen.com 