What disease is the number one cause of death in the United States?  Cardiovascular diseases claim more lives than all forms of cancer combined. In the United States, someone has a heart attack every 34 seconds. Every 60 seconds, someone in the United States dies from a heart disease-related event.

Spiritual heart problems may be even more prevalent than physical heart problems. The word “heart” occurs approximately 700 times in the Bible and it is a word rich in meaning. We often use word “heart” metaphorically to refer to the center of emotion, especially as contrasted to the head as the center of the intellect. The Bible however, has an all encompassing meaning since the heart may refer to one’s:

Mind – Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

Emotions – John 14:1 “Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.”

Will – 2 Corinthians 9:7 “Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

The heart refers to the totality of one’s inner person. The care for a spiritual heart condition is similar to the care for a physical heart condition. There needs to be an accurate diagnosis and then a regimen of proper diet and exercise. We may look fine on the outside but the heart may be in need of surgery. So what’s involved in spiritual health care?

You need an accurate Diagnosis
Luke 6:45 “The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart.” How are the words that come out of your mouth? What would other people say about your speech? Do your words reflect kindness or do they have an edge? Your words and your actions reveal the condition of your heart.

Maintain a healthy Diet
Proverbs 4:23 “Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.” What are you feeding on? A healthy diet leads to a healthy heart. We have a responsibility to watch over our heart.

Ensure you get sufficient Exercise
2 Corinthians 4:1 “Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we received mercy, we do not lose heart,” You were created on purpose, with a purpose, for a purpose. When you are using your God-given gifts, talents, and abilities it gives meaning and fulfillment to your life.

David realized the importance of his heart in Psalm 19:14,

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable in Your sight,
O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer.

RickAssociate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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