The Heart of the Crowd

In The Heart of the Crowd, we continue our Journey to Transformation series by examining the difference between the praise of people and the heart of God. Isaiah 26:3 promises “perfect peace” to those who keep their minds on God—“Shalom, Shalom”—a deep, enduring peace rooted in trust. As Jesus entered Jerusalem in Luke 19:40, the crowd erupted in praise. However, their hearts were set on worldly expectations, not God’s redemptive plan. Their worship, though loud and passionate, lacked spiritual alignment. We see this expressed through 4 Types of Praise (Greek):

• Doxa “glory” or “honor”
  • often used to describe the praise given to
    God for His mighty acts; giving glory for God’s mighty acts
• Epainos “praise” or “commendation”
  • often used to express admiration for
    God’s works
• Megaluno  “to magnify” or “to exalt”
  • exalt,” often used in the context of praising God for His greatness
• Krazo “to cry out” or “to shout”
  • conveys a loud, urgent expression, often
    associated with strong emotion or proclamation

Their praise was real, but it wasn’t rooted in understanding. It was a “God moment,” but the crowd misread it, expecting a political savior rather than a suffering redeemer.

The message warns of the dangers of following the heart of the crowd rather than aligning with God:

• Misinterpreting God’s plan, expecting God to fulfill personal desires rather than His divine purpose
• Worldly and carnal focus, leading to shallow, temporary worship
• Fickle commitment, where devotion fades when expectations aren’t met
• Missing spiritual battles, like Christ’s victory over sin;
• Opposing God’s will, as the same crowd who praised Jesus later called for His crucifixion.

But when we align our hearts with God, Transformation happens:

• We experience renewal of mind and clarity of purpose (Romans 12:2);

• Peace and direction come as we trust in the Lord (Proverbs 3:5–6);

• Our lives become fruitful and purposeful as we remain connected to Christ (John 15:5);

• We find joy and fulfillment as our desires begin to reflect God’s heart (Psalm 37:4);

• We are strengthened and guided through life’s challenges (Isaiah 40:31);

• And ultimately, we are given eternal life through Jesus (John 3:16).

To align your heart with God’s, Seek God’s will in prayer, stay in His Word, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you.

Supporting Scriptures: Isaiah 26:3; Zechariah 9:9; Psalm 118:26; Isaiah 62:11; Genesis 3:15; Romans 6:23; John 3:16; Romans 12:2; Proverbs 3:5-6; John 15:5; Psalm 37:4; Isaiah 40:31

Positive Affirmation: I Choose to Follow God’s Heart