A Healthy Heart

Last week my family celebrated with my younger brother Chris the fact that he is alive and well one year after his open-heart surgery. Of course before and during the surgery, we were all very concerned for his well-being. After the surgery, there were times when things seemed to be a bit touch and go.  The recovery was hard due to some complications.  After being released from the hospital, he ended up in a second hospital due to an infection.  The days in the hospital and just after his release seemed very long.  But, here we are  one year later.  Chris is doing very, very well.  We thank God for the medical community. But most of all, we are thankful to God himself for his presence, care, and healing.  It’s as if Chris has received a new lease on life!  Thankfully his heart is now a healthy heart. 

The odd thing about Chris’ difficulties with his heart and the surgery that eventually came about because of it, was that for the most part Chris always appeared to be very healthy.  Those who would meet him, by looking at him, would think that he was the picture of health. On the outside there were few clues that something was terribly wrong with his heart.  But we all know that, looking good on the outside is not all that there is to true health. For one, in order to be truly healthy, one must have a healthy heart.

That is as true on a spiritual level as it is on the physical level.  A person might have everything on the outside looking just right.  They may appear very religious and even spiritual.  By looking at them, others may think that they are the picture of spiritual health.  But if their heart is not right with God, whatever “health” they may project is merely a facade. 

The Bible tells us that, “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7 – NIV)  For some of us that may be a bit scary.  But God made this promise to his people: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26 – NIV) In other words, God is able to correct in us that which we cannot correct ourselves. He is able and willing to bring new life and health to our spiritual hearts—if only we will let him. 

Don’t fall into the trap of assessing your spiritual health by all exterior aspects of your life – e.g. what you do and don’t do. Instead realize that true spiritual health begins with the heart.  Maybe today you need to pray with the Psalmist David, “Create in me a pure heart...” (Psalm 51: 10 – NIV)  As you do, he will work in you to create a healthy heart.

Have a great day! 

-Pastor Tim Harris