“Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.” Matt 12:33-34 (NIV)
Do you remember the days when the nurse would ask you to stick out your tongue in order to insert a thermometer? The process was to detect your physical temperature. Your tongue is also an indicator of your spiritual temperature. The words you speak reflect what’s in your heart. Jesus affirmed that the mouth speaks out of the overflow of the heart.
Biting your tongue is not sufficient. It’s really not about your tongue. It’s about your heart. Whatever is in your heart will be displayed by your speech. The way you speak to others will exhibit what’s in your heart. Just as a good tree will bear good fruit and a bad tree produces bad fruit, your words will bear fruit based on the spiritual condition of your heart.
Open your mouth and stick out your tongue. What has your tongue revealed about your heart this week? Examine the words you have spoken. Have you been gracious and kind in your conversations? Have your interactions revealed a heart aligned with God’s heart?
Pursuing God,
Stephen Trammell
Executive Pastor
(This devotional was originally posted in ’07 or ’08. I’m taking a break from writing for a season of personal renewal.)
Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell
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Eye Puffiness: Causes of Swelling Under One or Both Eyes
What Causes Swelling or Puffiness Under One or Both Eyes?
The appearance of swelling or puffiness under
one or both eyes is a common issue that can be caused by various factors.
Understanding these causes can help in identifying the
underlying reasons and taking appropriate steps
to address them.
Symptoms of Swollen Eyes
Swollen or puffy eyes are often accompanied by other noticeable
symptoms, including:
Droopy eyelids
Discomfort or heaviness around the eyes
Watery or crusty eyes
Blurred vision (in severe cases)
Common Causes of Puffy Eyes
Puffiness under the eyes can be attributed to several common causes:
Lack of Sleep: Not getting adequate sleep can lead to fluid retention around the eyes, causing them to appear swollen. This is often noticeable after a night of inadequate rest.
Diet: An unhealthy diet high in sodium, sugar,
and processed foods can contribute to fluid buildup, leading to
puffy eyes.
Why Crying Causes Puffy Eyes: Crying can cause the tiny
blood vessels around the eyes to dilate, leading to temporary
swelling. This is why some people experience puffy eyes after
crying.
Allergies: Allergies can cause the eyes to swell due to inflammation and fluid retention as part of the body’s immune response to allergens.
Normal Aging: As people age, the skin loses elasticity, and fat tissue
under the eyes can begin to droop, creating a puffier appearance.
Genetics: genetics play a role in determining the structure
of the face and eye area, which can influence whether someone is prone to puffy eyes.
Medical Conditions Causing Swollen Eyes: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid
disorders, lupus, or sinus infections, can lead to puffiness around the eyes due to inflammation or fluid retention.
Swollen Eyes as a Drug Side Effect: Some medications, such as corticosteroids or certain blood pressure drugs, can cause fluid retention, leading to puffy eyes.
Diagnosing the Cause of Puffy Eyes
To determine the exact cause of puffy eyes,
it’s essential to consider both the frequency and duration of
the swelling. Sudden puffiness may indicate an allergic reaction or a medical condition, while chronic puffiness could be related to aging or genetics.
How Puffy Eyes Are Treated
Treatment for puffy eyes can vary based on the underlying cause.
Here are some approaches:
At-Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, staying hydrated, and ensuring adequate sleep can help
reduce puffiness. Applying cold compresses or using eye masks can also provide temporary relief.
Medications: In some cases, medications prescribed by a healthcare
professional may be necessary to address the root cause of the swelling.
Cosmetic Procedures: For those seeking a more long-term solution, cosmetic procedures like blepharoplasty
can be considered to remove excess fat or skin causing puffiness.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to correct
structural issues contributing to the appearance of puffy eyes.
Summary
Puffiness under the eyes can be a sign of various factors, from lack
of sleep and dietary choices to underlying medical conditions.
Understanding the cause is crucial for effective treatment.
By adopting healthy habits and seeking professional advice
when necessary, individuals can address puffiness and achieve a more
rested and refreshed appearance.
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