goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

The Heart of the Matter

By Linda Tancs

It’s fair to say that the Bible gets to the heart of the matter–that is, matters of the heart. We’re told that out of the heart the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34). That’s one reason why we should guard our heart (Proverbs 4:23). We should be cheerful (Proverbs 17:22) and pure hearted (Matthew 5:8). Above all, take heart in Jesus (John 16:33). No doubt you can come up with many illustrations showing how the heart is at the essence of everything we do, say, think or feel. It’s the foundation for our spiritual and temporal well-being.

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As part of FOOT FORWARD MINISTRIES (a teaching and speaking ministry), Go Forward in Faith represents faith-based meditations for personal and professional growth. Follow us on Twitter @moveonfaith and join the Facebook group @goforwardinfaith.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Have a Good Laugh

By Linda Tancs

A good comedy routine will remind you that laughter is the best medicine, just like the Bible says (Proverbs 17:22). Indeed, medical science shows that laughter boosts the body’s immune system, reduces stress, reduces the risk of heart attack and even acts as a natural tranquilizer. Of course, many life events do not inspire much laughter and, as Solomon reminds us, there is a time to cry as well as to laugh (Ecclesiastes 3:4). But joy comes with the morning (Psalm 30:5). In other words, don’t let bad or sorrowful feelings linger. The Lord promises beauty for ashes (Isaiah 61:3) and a mouth full of laughter (Job 8:21). If that doesn’t make you smile, then nothing will.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Joy to the World

By Linda Tancs

Joy is the essence of a Christ-centered life. Indeed, Jesus reminded his followers that He came for us to have and enjoy life (John 10:10). Joy is a fruit of the Spirit, an attribute of the Christian life (Galatians 5:22). It’s good medicine (Proverbs 17:22). So how do you acquire it? One way is to avoid fear, worry and control. What do you fear? Abandonment? Failure? Death? Fear is sometimes instinctual but often learned behavior. Paul reminds us that God did not give us a spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7). Worry is closely associated with fear. But why worry when you can pray (Philippians 4:6-7)? As Matthew pointed out in his gospel, worrying won’t add one cubit to your life (Matthew 6:27). Another joy-robber is a need for control. Are you a control freak? Don’t be a slave to your own agenda. It’s not about you (1 Corinthians 6:19). Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to advance God’s agenda, the common good, which is to look to the interests of others above your own (Philippians 2:4). Imagine how joyful you’d feel contributing to the needs of others, especially the poor and needy.