Healthy Heart

Because of our involvement with a prominent university hospital, I receive various updates on recent news revolving around personal health issues. One such notice had to do with keeping a healthy heart and ways to make that happen. Exercise and eating a reasonable diet of fruits and fresh vegetables were, of course, on the list. It is truly amazing to me the numerous places around the world that offer workout equipment and a place to focus on keeping the heart in good shape. Some gyms are available twenty-four hours a day and require some type of entrance access code to get in.

The Bible addresses the heart condition as well. As a matter of fact, God takes the condition of our heart very seriously. Yes, He cares about our physical heart but Scripture focuses on the “heart” as the place within each of us which is the hub that controls every other part of our being.

The heart is among many things:

• A compass: “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all of your heart.” [Jeremiah 29:13]
• A vault: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” [Luke 12:34] “The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart…” [Luke 6:45]
• A computer to store and process information: “…keep my words and store up my commands within you…write them on the tablet of your heart.” [Proverbs 7:1 & 3]

While “this heart” is not one that can be seen on any of our medical devices and instruments that measure condition, evidence that it exists can be clearly seen in the way we live our lives. How can we know if our heart is in good condition if we can’t see it?

Jesus said, “For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.” [Matthew 12:34]

So, it would appear that the words we speak are one way to know our heart condition. But, there are other indicators as well; the way we treat others through our attitude and actions; the way we use our talents and God-given gifts, just to name a few.

How do we maintain a healthy “heart” condition?

“For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” [Hebrews 4:12]

The very word of God is available to us twenty-four hours a day and does not require a membership fee or an access code to get in. OPEN YOUR BIBLE and let’s get in shape!!

Thank you LORD for giving us Your workout plan for keeping our heart healthy. AMEN

To The One Who knows everyone’s heart…