It is the Lord Who goes before you; He will [march] with you; He will not fail you or let you go or forsake you; [let there be no cowardice or flinching, but] fear not, neither become broken [in spirit—depressed, dismayed, and unnerved with alarm]. Deuteronomy 31:8

Stress is a major contributor to chronic illness contributing to more than 87% of current chronic illnesses. Takotsubo Syndrome is a stress-induced cardiomyopathy than is also known as broken-heart syndrome. Broken-heart syndrome is more common in postmenopausal women and is triggered by extreme emotional or physical stress such as divorce, illness or natural disasters like the recent pandemic or earthquakes. The incidence of broken-heart syndrome is higher in people who have anxiety and depression. The exact cause of broken-heart syndrome is not known but the release of stress catecholamines is believed to be the primary cause.

What we think and meditate on is very important for as a we think in our heart, so are we (Proverb 23:7). The things of this world can not provide lasting security and people will fail us. There is only one who will never fail us when our hope is in Him. Jesus came to bind up the wounds of the brokenhearted (Isaiah 61:1). He came so that we may have life and life more abundantly (John 10:10). His Kingdom is one of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Jesus, is the comforter and He will lead us into all truth if we will go to Him in prayer and worship. Setting our minds and hearts on Him and His life giving words will bring life and healing to our broken hearts.

This weeks mediation is so comforting to me. The Lord will not fail me but will march with me. When I think about marching, I think about soldiers marching into battle. I love this image of Jesus marching with me because life can be a battle at times. The bible tells us in Ephesians 6:12: For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere. The devil wants you broken-hearted and dismayed, but Jesus wants you emotionally stable and physically well. Jesus battles with us as we trust Him. Worship, prayer, and His word are our battle weapons. Scripture states that Jesus is our strength and impenetrable shield (Psalm 28:7). Go to Him this week with all your brokenness and allow Him to heal your broken heart. He will not fail you!

Takotsubo syndrome: the broken-heart syndrome. (2021). British Journal of Cardiology. https://doi.org/10.5837/bjc.2021.011

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