LOOK AFTER YOUR HEART
19th Jun 2019
Almost twice as many people die of heart disease in the UK than any other cause. The media is constantly trying to draw attention to how we can live more healthily and have good strong hearts.
Mostly, when the Bible speaks of the heart it is not the one that pumps blood around our bodies, but the centre of our being, the place where thoughts and actions find their motivation. Proverbs 4:23 (NLT) says, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.”
When we come to living faith in Jesus we are given a new heart. Ezekiel 36:26 says, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you.” A heart where we know we are forgiven, loved and accepted. A heart that is in touch with Father God. Proverbs 14:30 says, “A heart at peace gives life to the body.” This is the right and privilege of every believer.
However, we need to keep our heart healthy. We do this among other things by rejoicing in the Lord and worshipping him daily. Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” We spend time in God’s Word because it will keep our heart fed and strong. Psalm 37:31 says, “The law of God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip.”
Unforgiveness will damage our heart, so we need constantly to extend forgiveness to anyone who has offended or upset us. It is a known fact that bitterness, anxiety and jealousy can be factors in arthritic and rheumatic conditions. Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each others, just as God in Christ forgave you.”
Psalm 19:14 says, “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight.” and Psalm 139:23-24 says, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Are you looking after your heart?
by Charles Sibthorpe
