FEBRUARY 2026

This article is written by , Dianna Gutman DNP, MSN, FNP-BC

Monthly Newsletter

Caring for the Heart God Gave Us

Jean-Michel Etienne, Ph.D.

The heart is one of God’s most amazing creations. It beats over 100,000 times each day and sends blood to every part of our body. Caring for our hearts honors the One who made them. Scripture says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23). This advice applies to both our spiritual and physical lives.

Why Heart Health Matters

Heart disease is still one of the main causes of death around the world. Conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and chronic stress often develop slowly and without obvious signs. By staying aware and building healthy habits early, we can avoid serious problems.

 

Common risk factors include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Stress
• Lack of physical activity
• Family history of heart disease

As stewards of our bodies, we are called to be proactive. “My son, give attention to my words… for they are life to those who find them and health to all their flesh” (Proverbs 4:20, 22).

 

  • Technology Supporting Heart Wellness

    Today, modern tools make it easier to monitor heart health from home:

  • Wearable EKG Devices

    The ability to obtain an EKG is found on many smartwatches. These devices help detect irregular rhythms and provide valuable information for clinicians.

  • Pulse Oximeters

    A simple fingertip device measures oxygen levels and pulse rate. This is helpful for people with heart or lung concerns.

  • Heart Rate Monitors

    Built into many fitness trackers, they help individuals understand how their heart responds to activity, rest, and stress.

  • Home Blood Pressure Monitors

    High blood pressure often causes no symptoms, so regularly checking it at home can help prevent long-term damage.

  • Health Apps and Telemedicine

    Mobile apps track heart data and lifestyle habits and support communication with healthcare providers.

Lifestyle Habits for a Strong Heart

Technology can help, but the most important part of heart health is the choices we make every day.
• Eat a balanced diet: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Stay active: aim for regular moderate exercise such as walking or swimming.
• Manage stress: prayer, meditation, rest, and meaningful relationships support emotional and physical health.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol.
• Get regular checkups for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screening.
As believers, we know that taking care of our bodies honors God. “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit…?” (1 Corinthians 6:19). Keeping our hearts healthy is one way we live out this truth. When we encourage one another to live healthier lives, we strengthen our families, our church, and our ability to serve God with energy and joy.

Conclusion

Heart health is important for living a long, active, and meaningful life. By using modern tools and making healthy choices every day, we can take care of the heart God has given us. When we use both practical advice and spiritual commitment, we build up our physical health and our ability to love, serve, and live fully for Him.