GRACE-MINDED

A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body. Proverbs 14:30

God isn’t concerned about a portion of our well-being, He cares about all of it. He’s a God of wholeness and healing. He knows the world we live in is a stressful place and the peace He gives is the only way we’re getting through it in a healthy, hopeful way. We’re human. We’re not going to do this perfectly. But we can make a habit of surrendering our days to the One who did. Jesus, being one with our unfailing God, allowed no room for doubt. Because of Him we now have the one thing we need to move into the same intimate and confident relationship—grace.

God sees us through the filter of the cross, and staying mindful of that is the way to a peaceful heart. Our lives are increasingly bombarded with temptations to be afraid, stressed-out, worried, and anxious. Grace is the antidote. Trust activates it. Love increases its potency. We can do this! God is acquainted with our wiring because He designed it. Knowing how difficult our days would become, He provided a simple remedy—Trust in the Lord with all your heart (Proverbs 3-5). The heart is at the heart of it all. It’s ground zero for everything that matters and everything that makes us healthy both physically and spiritually. God is constantly at work there because He knows if the heart is at peace, the mind and body will follow. That’s why a peaceful heart leads to a healthy body. 

Resting in the promises He’s given brings the peace we need: No harm will overtake you (Psalm 91:10). Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). I have made you and I will carry you (Isaiah 46:4). I am your shield, your very great reward (Genesis 15:1).

His unfailing promises go on and on…let’s go on trusting them with all of our heart. 

(Excerpt from The Beach is Calling, 90 Devotions for Rest and Relaxation)