What's an 'orphan heart?'

An orphan heart is one which has not met it's true Father and felt his love. In the story of the prodigal son, both sons evidenced orphan hearts. Hearts that had not known the true nature of their Father's heart and felt 'beloved' and secure.
The younger son took all he could and went off and wasted it. Grasping, rebelling, distancing himself, using 'partying' to fill the void. It was only in deep need that he saw - had a flash of insight - that he was better off back home with his Dad.
The elder son evidenced that he felt he had 'slaved' for his Father, and was unaware that everything was his and he was in full partnership with his Father.

All these are signs of the orphan heart.
Orphans see God as a Master to appease. Must pray more, serve more... always more to do to please him - always feeling inadequate.
A son/daughter sees God as a loving Father who accepts them unconditionally. They know they don't have to 'earn' anything.
Orphans are independent and self-reliant. They feel they cannot trust anyone so have to make it happen themselves.
Sons/daughters are interdependent, knowing they need Father's love and wisdom, and the love and gifts of the community of faith.
Orpans live by the love of law. They want rules, principles, regulations, and obedience.
Sons/daughters live by "the law of love." They see the greatest truth is living to receive Father's love and give it away to the next person they meet. They know that "love is the fulfillment of the law" (Rom.13:10b)
Orphans are insecure and cover it up with trying to do all the right things. They rarely experience inner peace and rest.
Sons/daughters are resting in the Father's embrace daily and know their security in God does not depend on their behaviour, but on the grace of God and the work of Jesus.
Orphans seek approval and praise, but can never feel secure and satisfied.
Sons/daughters know they are totally accepted in God's love. They already have acceptance in Christ.
(Taken from "Spiritual Slavery to Spiritual Sonship" Jack Frost.
More coming...