The results of the blood work were sent to my in-box. High cholesterol and heart problems run in my family, so I decided to have some blood drawn. Although it was a preventative measure, I knew it was important. When I opened the report, I noticed my total cholesterol was a bit high. Fortunately for me, since I'm an avid exerciser, my HDL levels were great, leaving me with a ratio in the normal range. Armed with this information, I know I need to keep an eye on my diet and maybe research some homeopathic remedies to lower my total cholesterol.
With each passing year, I'm more aware of the importance of health screening. I'd rather catch something early on, and be able to deal with it in the infant stages, than adopt the erroneous mindset that just because I've always enjoyed good health, that will continue to be the case. Although not overly pleasant, and sometimes inconvenient, regularly scheduled well-visits have given me the heads up I've needed to address issues before they've become major concerns.
The Bible endorses a similar method for my spiritual life. On several occasions, the psalmist, David, invited the God of the universe to give him a thorough examination. One example reads, "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting," (Psalm 139:23-24; KJV). With regular check-ups, David let God put a finger on those things that were displeasing to Him. David became aware of the things that didn't line up with God's ways, and was able to repent of them and walk away with a renewed fellowship with his Heavenly Father.
Sin has a way of sneaking up on me. Because I hear no footsteps, and I'm feeling fine, I'm unaware of the danger. It's only when I find myself discontented, unhappy, and short-tempered, that I realize there's more going on than meets the eye. Deep down in my heart of hearts, my focus has shifted from God to self. My natural inclination is to justify my behavior, instead of making an appointment with the Great Physician. Oftentimes, I get confused and run to a friend to validate my feelings, rather than turning to the Father and admitting that I have a need. My spirit's cry needs to echo that of King David, "Judge me, O Lord...Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my reins and my heart," (Psalm 26:1a, 2).
Pride would have me postpone my appointment, in order to give myself an opportunity to get it together on my own. The Great Physician shakes His head sadly, all the while extending a firm yet loving hand. Daily appointments, allowing my Creator access to every nook and cranny of my heart, will point out the areas that need attention. Giving me every opportunity to agree with the Doctor, confess my waywardness and be directed back to the path of vibrant health. Dealt with early on, these areas can be rooted out and need not become major problems.
With each passing year, I'm more aware of the importance of health screening. I'd rather catch something early on, and be able to deal with it in the infant stages, than adopt the erroneous mindset that just because I've always enjoyed good health, that will continue to be the case. Although not overly pleasant, and sometimes inconvenient, regularly scheduled well-visits have given me the heads up I've needed to address issues before they've become major concerns.
The Bible endorses a similar method for my spiritual life. On several occasions, the psalmist, David, invited the God of the universe to give him a thorough examination. One example reads, "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting," (Psalm 139:23-24; KJV). With regular check-ups, David let God put a finger on those things that were displeasing to Him. David became aware of the things that didn't line up with God's ways, and was able to repent of them and walk away with a renewed fellowship with his Heavenly Father.
Sin has a way of sneaking up on me. Because I hear no footsteps, and I'm feeling fine, I'm unaware of the danger. It's only when I find myself discontented, unhappy, and short-tempered, that I realize there's more going on than meets the eye. Deep down in my heart of hearts, my focus has shifted from God to self. My natural inclination is to justify my behavior, instead of making an appointment with the Great Physician. Oftentimes, I get confused and run to a friend to validate my feelings, rather than turning to the Father and admitting that I have a need. My spirit's cry needs to echo that of King David, "Judge me, O Lord...Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my reins and my heart," (Psalm 26:1a, 2).
Pride would have me postpone my appointment, in order to give myself an opportunity to get it together on my own. The Great Physician shakes His head sadly, all the while extending a firm yet loving hand. Daily appointments, allowing my Creator access to every nook and cranny of my heart, will point out the areas that need attention. Giving me every opportunity to agree with the Doctor, confess my waywardness and be directed back to the path of vibrant health. Dealt with early on, these areas can be rooted out and need not become major problems.
Do you schedule regular appointments with the Great Physician? Will you let Him examine your heart and point out those areas that need attention? Listen to His words. Agree with Him, confess your sin, and begin to strengthen your spiritual health today!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for being my loving Great Physician. Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts. Where there are wicked ways in me, lead me in the way everlasting. Help me to make regular appointments with You, that I can be spiritually healthy. In Jesus' name, Amen.
