Helps and Heals, May 19

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22.RRe 141.1

“A glad heart helps and heals: a broken spirit saps vitality.” Proverbs 17:22, Moffatt.RRe 141.2

The relation that exists between the mind and the body is very intimate. When one is affected, the other sympathizes. The condition of the mind affects the health to a far greater degree than many realize. Many of the diseases from which men suffer are the result of mental depression. Grief, anxiety, discontent, remorse, guilt, distrust, all tend to break down the life forces, and to invite decay and death....RRe 141.3

Courage, hope, faith, sympathy, love, promote health and prolong life. A contented mind, a cheerful spirit, is health to the body and strength to the soul. “A merry [rejoicing] heart doeth good like a medicine.”—The Ministry of Healing, 241.RRe 141.4

Christ is the well-spring of life. That which many need is to have a clearer knowledge of Him; they need to be patiently and kindly, yet earnestly, taught how the whole being may be thrown open to the healing agencies of heaven. When the sunlight of God’s love illuminates the darkened chambers of the soul, restless weariness and disaffection will cease, and satisfying joys will give vigor to the mind, and health and energy to the body.—The Ministry of Healing, 247.RRe 141.5