17 June | EVERYONE
"A merry heart does good, like medicine, But a broken spirit dries the bones." Proverbs 17: 22
One of the great discoveries of medical science has been the function of endorphins as an immune enhancer. These substances produced in the brain have a major influence on body chemistry and enable the body to defend itself.
The Bible is not a book of medicine, and yet centuries ago, the wise Solomon already announced this concept that is now in the public domain: "A cheerful heart is good medicine." The problem in the world we live in is that often when we look at the environment around us or when we hear the news, it seems that there is not much reason to rejoice. That is why joy cannot depend on circumstances, but on knowing that we are not alone in the universe, that we are God’s children, and that we have a Father of love concerned about the well-being of His creatures.
As we journey through the desert of this life, happiness cannot be a continuous succession of pleasurable sensations. If you expect only moments of joy, you may end up becoming more depressed and exhausted. Happiness is rather an attitude that results from communion with the true source of happiness, which is God.
When you cultivate an experience of daily, permanent connection with your Creator and wake up in the morning and the first thing you do is thank Him for being alive, that feeling of gratitude is an extraordinary source of endorphins. The day may be covered with dark clouds, the difficulties and challenges may be terrible; but the cheerful outlook, born of your trust in God, makes the sun shine in the midst of darkness.
Take Action
The intimate joy you feel, you will end up expressing. Others will also benefit from it. Your own "bones" will thank you, for joy radiates health both inwards and outwards. Sing "A Merry Heart" (if possible, with your family).