From My Perspective - - -

The English Language contains many idioms and phrases that are used to summarize a thought and/or to narrow the parameters of a discussion on a particular subject or matter. One such phrase is – “the heart of the matter”.  The Reference Dictionary shares the following as “the heart of the matter”  finds its origin in the phrase – “the crux of the matter.”  Most understand what the phrase means, namely, “the basic, central, or critical point of an issue…” In English usage it is also used to mean difficulty or puzzle… The word “heart” has been used in the phrase to mean “the vital part” of an issue or matter at hand.

The idea of the “heart” as “the vital part” has application in terms of physical, mental and spiritual matters of life. The Book of Proverbs 4:20-23 states – “My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words.Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body. Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” The New Living Translation is – “ Pay attention…to what I say. Listen carefully. Don't lose sight of my words. Let them penetrate deep within your heart, for they bring life and radiant health to anyone who discovers their meaning. Above all else, guard your heart, for it affects everything you do.” And, The Message paraphrases these verses – “ Dear friend, listen well to my words; tune your ears to my voice. Keep my message in plain view at all times. Concentrate! Learn it by heart! Those who discover these words live, really live; body and soul, they're bursting with health. Keep vigilant watch over your heart; that's where life starts.” In other words, all of these renderings is stating that the heart is vital – it is the seat of one’s emotions – it is necessary to the maintenance of a normal bodily function.

In Psychological and Medical Studies, an area has become known as the Broken Heart Syndrome (BHS). It is “a known medical condition that frequently occurs soon after the loss of a loved one. Although Broken Heart Syndrome is discussed in modern and ancient literature, it was not recognized as a physical ailment until the early 1990’s. Symptoms of broken heart syndrome include shortness of breath, chest pain, insomnia and depression.” It is also recognized as being twenty-one times greater within hours (and immediate days) following the death of a spouse with whom there had been a deep, intimate, and loving relationship. “BHS is most common in women who have suffered the loss of a loved one or similar intense emotional trauma. A sudden fright, such as a robbery or even a surprise party, can also trigger BHS. It is possible to die of a broken heart through broken heart syndrome. An extensive study by the Mayo Clinic found about 3.6 percent of fatalities rate in patients with broken heart syndrome. The study also found that patients who experienced physical stress had lower survival rates than those under emotional stress alone.”

The Psalmist described how Depression impacted his entire being in Psalm 38:6-8, “ I am utterly bowed down and prostrate; all the day I go about mourning. For my sides are filled with burning, and there is no soundness in my flesh. I am feeble and crushed; I groan because of the tumult of my heart.” The New Living Translation expresses it, “I am bent over and racked with pain. My days are filled with grief. A raging fever burns within me, and my health is broken. I am exhausted and completely crushed. My groans come from an anguished heart.” There are many verses in the Bible that address the centrality of the heart in all matters. Proverbs 14:30 states, “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” The Message renders this verse – “A sound mind makes for a robust body, but runaway emotions corrode the bones.” There is a safe place for an individual that encompasses all of that which is necessary and vital for one’s physical, mental and spiritual health. It is in a very simple statement of Proverbs 3:5-8 (NKJV), “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones.” Too often and too frequently,one focuses on just the physical aspects and desires medication to meet the inner need. However, one would be better served by focusing on the Spiritual resolve as being The Heart of the Matter. Consider these things with me!