Day 7: Living a Whole Life 

Pray

Dear God, thank for caring about every aspect of who I am. Help me show myself the same care. Teach me to guard my heart—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Let my heart be a wellspring that my work, relationships, and daily tasks flow out of. Amen.   

Read

Deuteronomy 6:5

Proverbs 4:23

 Romans 12:1

Reflect

In Scripture the heart is much more than a bodily organ. It is the center of being. God writes the law upon our hearts (Jeremiah 31:33). God fills our hearts with happiness (Acts 14:17). Christ dwells in our hearts by faith (Ephesians 3:17). And everything we do flows from our hearts (Proverbs 4:23). The heart informs all of our actions, thoughts, and emotions.

This is why Proverbs says guarding the heart is of utmost importance. Guarding our hearts doesn’t just mean staying physically healthy. It includes tending to all the parts of who we are as God’s beloved creation. We have minds, bodies, and feelings. Each facet informs the other. Each is important to God. Each leads us into a deeper awareness of God’s presence. 

As a public service officer, guarding your heart can be particularly challenging. Many people in your fields find it difficult to invest energy into areas outside of work. The demands of the job can be all-consuming, leaving little time for anything else. But Scripture is clear that we need to take care of ourselves, in all our dimensions. We may be called to meaningful work, but we cannot carry out our tasks if our heart isn’t healthy. 

Respond

What practical things can you do this week to strengthen other areas of your life? Is there a relationship you can invest in? Make a phone call, schedule a coffee date, or set aside an evening to spend time with your family. Do you need more emotional or psychological support? Find a support group or therapist. Consider exercising, spending time outside, or going to a movie. Be intentional to guard your heart this week by investing in yourself and others.