Definition: And he did evil, because he prepared not his heart to seek the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 12:14. It's a really important and sobering message about our relationship with God. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse essentially says that someone did something wrong because they didn’t prepare their heart to listen to and trust God. It highlights a crucial difference between being ready to receive God’s guidance and being unprepared to do so. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “He did evil…” – This is a strong word, suggesting wrongdoing or transgression. It doesn’t mean they were perfect, but they made a mistake that caused harm. “…because he prepared not his heart…” – This is the key part. "Heart" in this context refers to our mind and spirit . It means they weren't willing to listen to God's voice, to think about what He wants for them, or to trust His plan. It’s like being closed off to receiving guidance. "...to seek the LORD." – This is the act of asking for God's help and wisdom. It’s about wanting to align with His will and understand His purpose in our lives. What does this mean practically? It means we can all make mistakes, face challenges, and even experience moments where we don’t fully listen to God’s leading. It’s a reminder that we need to cultivate a receptive heart – a willingness to open ourselves up to His guidance. Why is this important in the Bible? This verse is often seen as a warning about the dangers of resisting God's will. It speaks to: Falling short of our purpose: It suggests that if we don’t prepare our heart, we may miss out on blessings and opportunities that are meant for us. Disobedience: It highlights the importance of obedience – following God’s instructions – as a way to avoid trouble and live a righteous life. In short, this verse is a call to spiritual discipline: to be open to God's guidance and prepare our hearts so that we can receive His blessings. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of 2 Chronicles 12? Give an example of how this verse might apply to your life?