July 17, 2000 HERE'S MY HEART... Jesus admonished His followers, in John 14:1, "Don't let your heart be troubled..." If that verses doesn't teach us anything else, it teaches us the difference between "heart trouble" and "a troubled heart". Coronary disease (heart trouble) affects millions of people around the world. It is our nation's number one killer of adults. However, with the advances in medical science, proper diet, exercise, and (sometimes) medication, many people are able to lead normal, productive, happy, healthy lives. Not so with "a troubled heart". We've probably all experienced it at some time. Maybe it's a problem at home, with our marriage, our children, or our parents. Maybe it's a situation at work or school. There may be a financial set-back, or health begins to fail. It may be a "fractured friendship". But suddenly, there it is, a troubled heart. And, no medication, exercise, or proper diet will help. When we feel rejected, discouraged, and misunderstood, what do we do then? I would suggest we take the problem to The Great Physician! You see, Jesus knows all about "troubled hearts". It is to those hearts He came to provide peace, assurance, and hope. He knows and He cares about EVERYTHING that is affecting your life right now. The hymn writer put it this way, "Are you weary? Are you heavy-hearted? Tell it to Jesus; tell it to Jesus." You can do that, you know. So, if you are experiencing heart trouble, contact your physician. But, if you are experiencing a troubled heart, contact the Great Physician. He can help. God bless you. - Jim Clayton, Pastor