Yesterday was another big day as I navigate this health journey.
Before I get into all of that, it’s especially important for me to count my blessings for all the years I have lived without medications, disease, or disabilities.
Throughout the past thirty years of my life in Christ, my prayers of gratitude always placed my faith as my most treasured blessing; second was my blessing of strong physical health. At the age of forty, I discovered the importance of taking better care of myself, but it was not until more than a decade later when I revamped my lifestyle.
At fifty-one, I went through a radical weight loss and physical transformation, with aspirations to help others with mind, body, and soul wellness. I taught my Angel Babe all about good nutrition.
Then I began taking my health for granted and my disciplines went out the window. I’m not exactly sure how I could sacrifice something so important to me. It was like an addict relapsing. I went right back to sugar. I know many of you understand what a battle that is.
The warnings of consequences came to mind as I recounted my father’s poor heart health. He was in his mid-forties when he had a massive heart attack, resulting in a four-way heart bypass. His heart gave out at age fifty-nine.
The warnings of consequences came to mind as I recounted my father’s poor heart health. He was in his mid-forties when he had a massive heart attack, resulting in a four-way heart bypass.
His heart gave out at age fifty-nine.
Emotional and psychological trauma, stress, and depression wreak havoc on our physical health. Then there’s age. My dad’s addictions to nicotine and cocaine for a good portion of his life played a huge part in his poor health. As did his love of burgers and fries.
A little more than a year ago, about the time the COVID19 craziness began, I was diagnosed with sleep apnea and two autoimmune disorders. Trying to manage the symptoms and accepting new limitations is rough. My heart health is now at even greater risk.
Heart health.
Yesterday, as the ultrasound tech explored the chambers of my heart, I prayed to God,
Lord, my heart is yours. You know every chamber, lifeline, and hidden corner. My heart is in your hands, spiritually and physically.
~Cherie Denna
The heart of the matter, the truth is, that the greatest commandment that God, our Creator, has given us is to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love others as yourself. ” Mark 12:28-31
“Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” Proverbs 4:23
“A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” Proverbs 14:30
Is your spiritual heart right with God and with others?
Could any unforgiveness, anger or bitterness be having a harmful effect on your physical heart?
Would you pray with me as we both take a closer look?
Here are a few resources for your heart…
Web Page – Bible Verses About the Heart and Health
Article (PDF) – Spiritual and Physical Care for Your Heart
Article (PDF) – Forgiveness and Your Health
Book – Dr. Michelle Bengtson’s books and podcast will help you on your heart journey
Website – Faith-based Toolkit for Heart Health – National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute
Believe. Belong. Be loved.
Your heart matters,
Cherie