A Mother’s Heart - 9/16/2009 - Maintaining a Healthy Heart

In my neighborhood Bible Study, there are four of us who gather each week to study God’s word and reflect on His work in our lives. This past month, we watched a DVD segment from Rick Warren about maintaining our hearts - physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I thought it had some simple insights to remind us all about caring for our hearts.

Three habits that refresh a loving heart physically - getting plenty of rest (Psalm 127:2), eating a balanced diet (Psalm 119:73) and getting regular exercise (1 Corinthians 6:20). It is important to set aside one day each week to rest, relax and refresh spiritually; for many of us, this comes on Sunday.

Three habits that recharge us emotionally are - solitude (Mark 6:31), recreation (Luke 7:34) and laughter (Proverbs 17:22). It is valuable to make time to be by ourselves. I think that is one reason I like running so much. It also replenishes me emotionally and spiritually while challenging me physically.

Lastly, there are three habits that renew us spiritually - daily quiet time, small group, and worship. These habits are essential for our spiritual growth to occur and for our souls to be cared for. Rick Warren made a comment that a Christian without a group is like an orphan. We need each other to hold one another accountable, to inspire each other, and encourage one another.

“The quality of your relationship to God determines the quality of every other relationship you have.” - Rick Warren

May you make efforts every day to maintain a healthy heart physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Maintaining a Healthy Heart

- from Rick Warren’s 40 Days of Love series