“A wise man’s heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction.”

(Proverbs 16:23 NIV)

Greetings in the wonderful name of our Lord and King, Jesus Christ! Certainly I’m in awe with the blessings of God that are being continually showered upon us at Bethel. We will not take for granted nor consider nonchalant the move of God in this place! I’m thankful to all who have recently made their decisions to dedicate their life to Christ, as well as become members of the New Bethel family! The Psalmist lets us know that, “…the goodness of God endureth continually.” (Psalm 52:1) The testimonies of so many have shown & proven to us that this is the place of Favor!” We therefore are obligated to give God worship & praise, and commit ourselves to His service.

Last Sunday and throughout this month you’ll see many wearing “red” as we celebrate February as the Heart Awareness Month. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. Every year, 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease. The good news? Heart disease can often be prevented when people make healthy choices and manage their health conditions. I hope you have picked up and checked out the information that has been provided.

We’ve witnessed many recently who have made the critical choice for their life by following their heart in submitting their will to God’s plan for them. The actual meaning of the Hebrew word that is used for heart means the internal organ that pumps blood throughout our bodies. However, in biblical literature it is most frequently used to refer to one’s personality, feeling, or thoughts. Often the heart in the scriptures is interchanged with one’s soul or mind.

So when the people of God declared to Moses, “…tell us whatever the Lord our God tells you. We will listen and obey.” (Deut. 5:27 NIV) The Lord responded, “I have heard what this people said to you. Everything was good. Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands forever…” (Deut 5:28 NIV) God’s dream is for man to have a heart (or desire) to serve and fear Him, those who would be obedient and keep all his commands. Many will verbalize their commitment, but in reality do not follow through. David encouraged us to, “Commit thy way unto the Lord.” (Psalm 37:5). But commitment has to come from the heart, not just what is said with your mouth. That’s why the Proverb writer said it this way, “A wise man’s heart guides his mouth and his lips to promote instruction.” The real truth of ‘who you are’ is determined by one’s heart because, “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he…” (Prov. 23:7)

Be blessed and today expect something “good” to happen to you! Remember that the Lord has declared this is “The Year of Abundance!”

Pastor A. Glenn Brady