I could feel my hardened heart being pressed and squished.
Sometimes, it really hurt.
It really hurt to realize that grudges or attitudes I had held that felt so “right” were actually keeping me from God.
Other times, the softening process felt familiar and comfortable.
Like I could breathe a sigh of relief.
I also learned that my reaction to my hardened heart being molded made a huge impact.
Would I keep the new softness?
Or would I return to the familiar hardness?
I tried to literally and intentionally choose to stay with the softness I was getting glimpses of.
Elder Edward Dube taught perfectly in the most recent conference that the Lord wants us to approach Him with the hardness in our hearts, allowing Him to work the miracles He loves to do.
“Come as we are with a willing heart. He will give us a new heart.”
And anciently, Ezekiel mentioned this same symbolism.
“A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26)
It’s been one of my favorite processes, and one that I now actively seek and pray for:
I want my heart to be softened. To be more aligned with God’s will. To be willing to do what He asks.
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it.
Prone to leave the God I love.
Here’s my heart. 
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
