Just as we need a check-up to make sure our heart is okay physically, we also need regular check-ups to make sure our heart is okay spiritually. So, let me ask you: How is your heart? Do you need CPR?

If you are harboring anger, bitterness, or resentment, your heart isn't right. If you are involved in something you know God doesn't like, your heart is not right. If you feel farther away from God, your heart isn't working properly. Any time your heart isn't working properly, you need spiritual CPR to get it working right again.

1. Confession: Agree with God. That's what confession means. It is saying to God, "Yes, Your ways are right, Your Word is true, and this thing I've been clinging to is a sin, because You say it is."

   "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (I John 1:9)

2. Purging: Get rid of the things that are causing harm to your heart. We have to change those things that are stumbling blocks. causing us to sin against our God.

   "If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work." (2 Tim 2:21)

3. Repentence: We must repent of all sin. We cannot ignore or tolerate any traces of sin in our hearts, however minor it might seem. Repentance is the way to cleanse our hearts and get them right with God. We have to understand that any sin creates a barrier between us and God. God's Word leaves no room for doubt:

   "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me". (Psalm 66:18)

Just as CPR can re-start a heart that has stopped physically, spiritual CPR re-starts a heart that has stopped working as it should, spiritually. Don't hesitate to perform CPR weekly, or even daily, if needed.