A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance,
But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.
Proverbs 15:13 (NKJV)
The effect of the mind upon the body is made obvious by what is consistently seen in facial expressions. Mrs. Brown may be smiling from face to feet when the pastor calls at her home, but if her smile is a dress worn only on special occasions, sooner or later folks will find out about her tattered, everyday frocks. The Christian who abides in Christ, and who has endured the pain and agony caused by the most traumatic experience can still have a tranquil expression without takings pills. Pain and sorrow never make a Christian ugly.
My tiny, aged Grandmother Spangler, with whom I lived after the death of mother when I was 12 years old, was one of life's battle-scarred veterans. For more than four-score years she lived what some would have considered a dull, boring life. She was continually involved in sacrifice, sympathy, and concern for others. If she wrote an autobiography, the exclamation marks used would not be for some thrilling episode or exciting adventure. Rather, they would emphasize only the tragedies and afflictions she endured. Yet her face was overlaid by an expression of deep serenity and abiding peace.
How true it is that "the faces of those who are benevolent and sympathetic will shine with the luster of true goodness, while those who do not cherish kindly thoughts and unselfish motives express in their faces the sentiments cherished in their hearts." -- Testimonies, vol 4 p 64
The second part of our text expresses an unalterable truth. It is a physical, mental, and spiritual law that a sorrowful, gloomy mind will crush the spirit. From a physical standpoint, "nothing is so fruitful a cause of disease as depression, gloominess, and sadness." -- Testimonies vol 1 p 702
What is the solution to depression? How can one have a happy outlook on life? There are many factors involved, but one of the most important is a constant trust in God. This requires mental discipline and a strict guard on the senses. Let the prayer of Mary, the mother of Jesus, ever be ours. "My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord and my spirit exults in God my saviour" Luke 1:46,47, Jerusalem).
taken from: First Things First
June 27
by: Bob Spangler
