On Being All Heart
Psalm 31: 19 – 24
HEART is the Hebrew word for mind, purpose, intention, or insight.
It is said of God “He will strengthen your heart.” Such a concept has been veiled in meaning. The organ of the heart is a marvel. This rugged four-chambered, four-valved pump handles 5,000 gallons of blood a day, almost enough to fill a railroad tank car. It supplies the circulatory system through 12,000 miles of vessels, and in the course of the average lifetime beats two and one half billion times. There is an additional strategic function of the heart long unknown.
Now without regard for that statement a British researcher at Southampton University and author Dr. Alan Watkins helps our understanding. In his book Mind-Body Medicine: a Clinician’s Guide to Psycho/neuro/immunology he speaks of the heart as the body’s powerhouse which has a “hitherto unrecognized role in balancing the entire human system.” He states the heart produces 50 times more electrical energy than the brain and a thousand times more electro-magnetic energy. Being the strongest power source in the body, it coordinates all the other body systems, including the brain, commonly thought to be the dominant organ.
The process is known as “entrainment,” meaning working together. It produces harmony throughout all of the body.
Dr. Watkins says biological systems entrain. The heart sets the pattern. In humans it only happens in response to a positive emotional state. All body systems have their body clocks which have their own rhythm. When there is a positive emotional state, these rhythms synchronize. When this happens the brain works better, the immune system functions better, and your hormonal system is at its best.
When our Lord says He will strengthen our heart He is saying He will help your brain, immune system, and hormones work together to your fullest advantage. All of this happens when the Lord is allowed to strengthen your heart by you thinking with the mind of Christ. That is, having His thoughts on each issue. Such positive thoughts impact all areas of your life.
Little wonder the Scripture says, “Man looks upon the outward appearance, but God looks upon the heart.”
Your heart is the center of your intellectual, moral, emotional, and spiritual life. Is it right with God?
Like most fine devices, the heart needs to be re-calibrated with Scripture being the standard. Remember, “Your word have I hidden in my heart that I may not sin against you.” “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)