Doctors have all sorts of tests to gauge our physical health, and those tests keep us on a healthy track. They warn us if we are off track. They’re helpful.

Wouldn’t it be helpful if someone would invent a spiritual thermometer?

Some sort of instrument that would tell us how we’re doing in our walk with God and the maturation of our souls. I believe a thermometer like that exists. It’s in the form of an old question.

“Does your heart break over the things that break the heart of God?” That old question might be the quickest and most effective spiritual gut check available.

Throughout history, the tool God has used to effect the most change in our worlds is a broken heart.

Having a holy heartbreak is not a choice. It’s not an option. It is a necessary byproduct of belonging to Jesus.

I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. (Ezekiel 36: 26,27)

So how is your temperature? Does your heart break for the things that break the heart of God? Ask yourself the question.

And if you’re serious about changing your life and the world, ask God for a holy heartbreak.

But be careful. He loves to answer this prayer.