As I drew some parallels in my sermon this past Sunday between getting a physical check-up and a spiritual one, I pulled a stethoscope out of my pocket as I began noting where a doctor usually begins. The first concern is often to check the heartbeat and breathing as the proper functioning of the heart and lungs greatly impacts the functioning of the rest of the body. Spiritually speaking it is the same vital concern. What is in our heart and that on which it is focused, as well as what is being breathed into our life and breathed out from it relates to our spiritual health. We need to consider our heart’s health because Jesus noted some awful things can come from it. (Matthew 15:19) Having a healthy heart moves us in the right direction both physically and spiritually.
Writing to the Christians at Rome, Paul noted the transition in their life where we read. . .
“(17) But thanks be to God, that you who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching to which you were committed, (18) and, having been set free from sin, have become slaves of righteousness.” (Romans 6:17-18 ESV)
It was not merely a surface acknowledgement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but one that began deep in the heart to move from slavery to sin to becoming slaves of righteousness. Is our heart focused on continuing to grow in a love of the truth of God and the righteous life we are to be living? Rather than the cholesterol of worldliness clogging the arterial flow from our heart, may the love of Christ compel us to live daily to His glory and praise!
Have a great day TURNING THE WHOLE HEART TO GOD FOR HOLY LIVING!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
