A cheerful heart is good medicine (Proverbs 17:22)
The Bible is not a psychology book, but it does give a lot of wise advice for finding happiness. Proverbs 17:22, for example, tells us that "a cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." This simple statement was recently confirmed by an in-depth study conducted by Dr. Daniel Mark, a cardiologist from Duke University.
An article about the study that appeared in the New York Times newspaper was entitled: "Optimism Gives Life to Heart Patients, and Pessimism Brings Death." The article began with words like these: "A healthy outlook helps the heart heal." Another cardiologist, Dr. Nancy Frasure-Smith, who has studied the effects of depression, anxiety, and anger, admits, "We don't know how to change negative emotions." However, faith in God can bring about that change.
Those who see far beyond the difficulties they are facing, and put their hope in God's goodness, will not be able to contain their joy. Our Savior, Jesus Christ, repeatedly stated this important thing: "Believe" (Matthew 9:2), "Strengthen your heart" (Matthew 9:22), "Be still" (Matthew 14:27) and "Strengthen your heart " (Acts 23:11).
He fully understands all the crises of this life and encourages us with consolation: "Be strong, I have overcome the world" (John 16:33) -- VCG
WHATEVER HAPPENED WE CAN REJOICE IN THE LORD
* Take from Daily Reflections