I love it when science or psychology back up the Bible. I’ve been known to shout aloud when I stumble upon such connections and share it with anyone near me whether it be friend, foe or inanimate object. Generally, when I’m reading articles or studies it’s never to find Biblical concepts. I stumble upon them inadvertently, so it’s always a pleasant surprise.
The Bible is a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to be discovered. And I get excited when I read studies that show how relevant the Bible continues to be – even though that’s never the intent of the studies themselves.
Mental health
For example, the Bible talks about the importance of mental health. Throughout the book of Proverbs, it tells us a broken heart “crushes the spirit” (Prov 15:13). And recovering from “a sick body” is easier than bearing “a crushed spirit” (Prov 18:14). It even talks about the correlation between how someone feels and how it affects their behavior: “…a broken spirit saps a person’s strength.” (Prov 17:22). If you’ve ever been depressed, you know how true this verse is.
Mindfulness
Ecclesiastes preaches the importance of being present, enjoying life and living it to the fullest. Being mindful of the fact our lives are temporary and we should treasure and enjoy the days we have ( Eccl 9:5-8). And David echoes the same sentiment when he pens “This is the day the Lord had made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Ps 118:24). Every day is a gift to be treasured and cherished.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Going into the New Testament, Paul writes in Romans 12:2 that transformation begins by “changing the way you think.” What we think affects our emotions which in turn determines our behavior. To change our behavior we need to change our thoughts. Paul was definitely expressing an idea ahead of its time.
Jesus himself said only the truth has the capacity to set us free (John 8:32). This applies to every aspect of our life and not just the spiritual freedom we find in Christ. Knowing the truth about ourselves, no matter how hard and difficult it may be, sets us free. This forms the basis for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
What I’m learning
These are just a few snippets of the connections I’ve made. There are a lot more because written in the pages of this ancient book are the formulas for living a fulfilling and rich life. Proverbs actually opens with the bold claim that it will teach you how to live a disciplined and successful life (Prov 1:3).
So take some time and unearth the secrets hidden throughout the pages of the Bible for yourself. It has the power to transform your mind, body, and soul. And the wisdom it contains is timeless.
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT