Habits of a Healthy Mind

TOH Archives
Jun 28, 2018
2 min read

"Don’t worry about the wicked or envy those who do wrong. For like grass, they soon fade away. Like spring flowers, they soon wither. Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you. He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun. Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes. Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper— it only leads to harm." -Psalm 37:1-8 There is so much said today about improving our health by developing habits of optimism, whether facing a difficult medical diagnosis or a simple pile of dirty laundry. Had a opportunity to be in a training session with this Psychology Professor Dr. Barbara Frederickson from Boston University, and she went on to say that we should try activities that build joy, gratitude, love, and other positive feelings. We know, however, that more is required than a general wish for good feelings. We need a strong conviction that there is a source of joy, peace, and love upon which we can depend. REFLECTION: Psalm 37:1-8 gives positive actions we can take as an antidote to pessimism and discouragement. Consider these mood boosters: Trust in the Lord, do good, dwell in the land, feed on His faithfulness (v.3); delight in the Lord (v.4); commit your way to the Lord, trust in Him (v.5); rest in the Lord, wait patiently for Him, do not fret (v.7); cease from anger, forsake wrath (v.8). Because they are connected to the phrase "in the Lord," those directives are more than wishing thinking or unrealistic suggestions. It's because of Jesus, and in His strength, that they become possible. Our one true source for optimism is the redemption that is in Jesus. He is our reason for hope! PRAYER: Lord, we can't manufacture hope, and even if we tried it wouldn't be real. Help us to find hope in You because of what Jesus has done for us. We know You are walking beside us. Continue to bless my family and friends with great favor and health. In Jesus' Name, Amen.