Have you ever been so irritated by someone’s behavior that it throws you all the way off and it changes the entire trajectory of your thoughts and plans?
This week, I want you to promise me you’ll do something I failed to do at the beginning of last week… guard your heart. But what does it really mean to guard your heart?
Definition
“Guarding your heart” is a phrase often used in a metaphorical sense, typically within the context of relationships or emotional well-being.
It essentially means being cautious and protective of your emotions, feelings, and vulnerabilities.
On a broader level, guarding your heart can involve being mindful of the influences and experiences that affect your emotional state.
Perspective
When a law enforcement officer wears a bullet proof vest, the goal is to (primarily) protect the heart from injury. Why is protecting the heart so important?
Proverbs 4:23 from the Bible reads: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
This verse is often interpreted to mean that one should be careful about what they allow into their hearts and minds, as it influences their thoughts, feelings, and actions.
The “heart” in this context refers not just to the physical organ, but also to the seat of emotions, desires, and intentions.
Guarding it implies protecting it from negative influences such as harmful thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors.
In essence, Proverbs 4:23 advises prioritizing the protection of one’s innermost being, because it shapes the course of one’s life and actions.
It suggests being mindful of the things we expose ourselves to, whether they be influences from others, media, or our own thoughts, and ensuring they align with values that promote goodness, wisdom, and righteousness.
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries in your relationships and interactions with others. Boundaries define what behavior is acceptable and what is not, helping you protect your emotional well-being.
Listen to Your Intuition: Pay attention to your instincts and gut feelings about people and situations. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your intuition and take necessary precautions.
Choose Your Company Wisely: Surround yourself with people who uplift, support, and respect you. Avoid toxic relationships or environments that drain your energy and affect your well-being.
Practice Self-Love and Self-Care: Treat yourself with kindness, compassion, and respect. Take time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul, such as exercise, hobbies, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
Communicate Effectively: Express your thoughts, feelings, and needs openly and honestly in your relationships. Effective communication can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts that may harm your heart.
Forgive and Let Go: Holding onto resentment, anger, or grudges can weigh heavily on your heart. Practice forgiveness, not necessarily for others’ sake but for your own peace of mind and emotional well-being.
Stay True to Yourself: Stay grounded in your values, beliefs, and principles. Don’t compromise your integrity or authenticity to please others or fit in with societal expectations.
Practice Mindfulness: Cultivate awareness of your thoughts, emotions, and reactions in the present moment. Mindfulness can help you respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively, reducing the risk of heartache.
Learn from Past Experiences: Reflect on past experiences and relationships to identify patterns, lessons, and red flags. Use these insights to make healthier choices and avoid repeating the same mistakes.
Seek Support When Needed: Don’t hesitate to seek support from trusted friends, family members, or a therapist if you’re struggling to guard your heart or heal from emotional wounds.
Remember, guarding your heart is a continuous process that requires self-awareness, self-care, and courage.
It’s about honoring and protecting your emotional well-being while remaining open to genuine connections and experiences.
Let me know your thoughts in the comment section below and don’t forget to subscribe.
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