Inspiration Thursday

I spotted this cereal bowl in a flea market recently. It reminded me of the ongoing health trend in America. Cheerios is a whole grain cereal that most of us grew up with. This bowl is sending the message that Cheerios is "Heart Healthy". A healthy heart is critical to a healthy life. We engage in all sorts of diet and exercise in order to keep the blood flowing and strengthen the heart. There also seems to be a spiritual side to the heart and that side is often neglected.
I would not pretend to know the spiritual/intellectual connection between the mind and the heart, but the Bible makes it clear that such a connection exists. Have you ever thought about doing something only to get a feeling in your heart that something just isn't right about that decision? The Bible instructs us, "Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." I Samuel 16:7. Professional athletes are often selected because of their size, speed, and skill, but what separates the good players from the hall of fame player is their heart. They play with passion. Scripture warns us, "Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord." Proverbs 16:5.
God's Word promises us, "My son, if your heart is wise, My heart will rejoice - indeed, I myself; yes, my inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak right things. Do not let your  heart envy sinners, but be zealous for the fear of the Lord all the day. My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways." Proverbs 23:15-17, 26. There is no better place to exercise the spiritual side of your heart than to spend time in God's Word and there is no better place to begin than reading one chapter in Proverbs each day. Have a blessed day.