Outward Determined by the Inward

Something that has been coming up a lot for me lately is this idea that our outward lives (the way we interact with others through our words and actions) are a direct result of our inward lives (the things we value or set as priorities which provide us with a sense of purpose). I mean if you stop to think about it, it really does make sense that the things which you and I value impact the way we live. So if we get the inward stuff figured out, the outward stuff will fall into place?

As I've been thinking about this lately it has brought a new weight to the idea of "guarding one's heart" because it seems like whatever might be going on inside is eventually going to make its way out. Doesn't it make sense that if there is greed inside then the way we treat others will be seasoned with greed? Could it be the same for...lust? pride? jealousy? humility? generosity? mercy?