What does the Bible say about the heart of a stranger?

In Exodus 23:9, the Lord reminds us of the heart of a stranger, emphasizing the need for awareness of our spiritual condition. A stranger is portrayed as someone who is without knowledge of God, devoid of hope, and blind to the reality of sin. This heart reflects a state of separation from God, living apart from His grace and mercy, and unacquainted with the saving work of Christ. The danger for such individuals is profound, as they remain exposed to eternal judgment without any awareness of their plight.

Reflecting on the Lord's grace, it is vital to remember our own past state as strangers. As Robert Hawker writes, acknowledging where we have come from fosters a deeper appreciation of God’s mercy. Those who know the heart of a stranger can better empathize with others in similar spiritual ignorance, and their encounters with the Savior ought to compel them to share this hope with those still in the darkness of sin. By recognizing our own past as strangers, we cultivate a heart of gratitude and a desire to reach the lost with the gospel of Christ.