What role does the heart play in worship according to the Bible?

In 1 Timothy 2 and throughout scripture, it is emphasized that God desires worship that comes from a pure heart. He is not concerned with external appearances or rituals alone; instead, He looks to the condition of our hearts. This aligns with passages like 1 Samuel 16:7, where God instructs Samuel that He doesn't look at outward appearances but rather at the heart. Our worship should stem from a heart that acknowledges Christ's glory and our need for His righteousness. This understanding liberates us from the bondage of wanting to appear righteous based on our works, focusing instead on Christ’s works as the foundation for our worship.