Health, Faith, Fitness, Backed by Evidence.

Your Health. Your Faith. Your Fitness. Backed by Evidence.

Faith, Health, and Evidence

Faith: Prayer & Your Health, Part 2

Faith, Health, and Evidence

silhouette of kneeling man
Image credit: Aaron Burden

My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body.”

Proverbs 4: 20-22

Is it possible that the act of prayer has impacts on your mental and physical health? Is our physical body naturally wired to have a spiritual side? Does following the teachings of the scriptures not only benefit us spiritually, but have health implications as well? What are the health benefits of prayer–if any? What does the research say?

In part 1, I explored the concept of prayer from a scriptural perspective. Scriptural concepts explaining why some prayers are answered and others are not were explored. In this post, research-backed evidence is examined concerning the health benefits of prayer.

Prayer frequency and self-ratings of health

The research linking prayer and health is interesting, though confounding factors have to be considered. For example, it is believed that prayer is more frequent and common for people when their health is failing (Mesenhelder & Chandler, 2001). This makes sense. If you are diagnosed with a serious health condition, fear and uncertainty can definitely drive you to pray. As such, prayer frequency might be expected to be correlated with worse health outcomes as opposed to better health outcomes.

However, researchers Meisenhelder and Chandler (2001) surprisingly found the opposite to be true. In a group of 1,412 Presbyterian pastors aged 26-80, those that prayed the most frequently (2 or more times per day) rated their health significantly higher (even when controlled for demographic variables such as age and gender) than those that prayed less frequently in three separate rating scales:

  • General health
  • Vitality
  • Mental health

A homogeneous (meaning persons with similar characteristics) sample group was purposefully chosen so as to reduce confounding factors. In other words, the self-perceived superior health ratings can not be attributed to differences in religious beliefs or practices. Instead, with many factors in common, the difference in prayer frequency appears to be the differing factor.

gray praying hand statue
In otherwise similar groups, increased prayer frequency was linked to superior self-ratings of health and vitality (Image credit: Deb Dowd)

Prayer and health outcomes: Interesting research findings

  • In a study of 177 participants undergoing open heart surgery, both the use of prayer by the patient, or the patient having a secular reverence for art and nature were significantly linked to lower rates of post-operative complications. The use of prayer was linked to a 53% reduction in post-op complications, while those who practiced secular reverence had a 30% reduction in post-op complications. Researchers concluded that the spiritual emotion of a positive awe or wonder (as opposed to a fearful awe or wonder) promotes greater physical recovery (Ai, A. L., Wink, Tice, Bolling, Shearer, 2009)
  • A shocking double-blinded study of 393 participants admitted to a coronary unit who were followed for a period of 10 months evaluated an intervention group of 192 patients that were prayed for by a Christian prayer-group meeting outside the hospital (intercessory prayer–or prayer for the health of others) (Byrd, 1988 as cited in McCullough, 1995). The remaining patients did not receive the prayer intervention. Neither the patients, study author, nor the medical staff knew which patients were in the intervention or control group. Twenty-six health measures were utilized, and no significant differences were noted PRIOR to the intervention of prayer between the two groups. Following the prayer intervention and the 10 months that followed, the group of patients for whom the Christians prayed for experienced significantly lower rates of congestive heart failure, heart attacks, pneumonia, need for medications such as diuretics and antibiotics, and need for ventilation support! However…
  • It must be noted that a systematic review of 10 studies conducted by the respected Cochrane review team regarding intercessory prayer (where people pray on behalf of others who are sick) showed no significant benefits from intercessory prayer in terms of rates of death, medical status, re-hospitalization, or negative outcomes (Roberts, Ahmed, Hall, & Davison, 2009)
  • In a review of 11 studies examining the practice of private prayer and health, 9 of 11 studies found a significant reduction in rates of depression for those that routinely practiced private prayer (Anderson & Nunnelley, 2016). In 10 studies reviewed by the same researchers, prayer significantly improved anxiety symptoms. Interestingly, prayer frequency did not appear to impact physical health in terms of blood pressure or health ratings in the studies reviewed by the researchers
  • A study of 2,601 participants found that neither attendance at worship services alone, nor private prayer alone protected mental health as life stressors increased. However, when the two were combined (frequent private prayer AND regular worship service attendance), mental health was significantly buffered and protected against increased stressful life events. Even if the participants were negatively impacted by stressful life events, mental health declined at significantly lower rates for participants that frequently prayed privately AND frequently attended worship services versus those who did not both pray frequently AND attend worship services frequently (Rainville, 2018)
yellow leaf tree between calm body of water at daytime
A sense of awe for nature and God combined with prayer or reflection may produce an emotional state where physical healing is enhanced (Image credit: Faye Cornish)

And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Hebrews 10: 24-25, NKJV

How you pray/ what you pray for impacts your mental health

An interesting concept found in the research links how you pray/ what you pray for to mental health outcomes. Specifically, researchers have found that the following regarding prayer types and mental health outcomes:

Helpful prayer types per research:

  • Meditative prayers focusing on feeling the presence of God and listening for answers from God are associated with a positive sense of well-being, a sense of strength, and happiness. Additional benefits include reductions in rates of anger, anxiety, and depression
  • Colloquial prayers (defined by the researchers as talking to God as well as asking Him for guidance using your own words) are associated with improved sense of well-being, an increased sense of happiness, with reductions in symptom rates of anxiety and depression
  • Disclosure to God: meditative and colloquial prayers were found to involve greater sharing of thoughts, feelings, and experiences with God. Higher rates of disclosure to God were found to be linked to significantly higher ratings of positive mood states (less anger and tension) and improved mental health (Winkeljohn Black, Pössel, Rosmarin, Tariq, & Jeppsen, 2017)

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

1 John 1: 9, KJV

Mixed or even negative types of prayer per research:

  • Petitionary prayers (defined by the researchers as requests for material benefits) appear to either have no effect on anxiety or depression, or in some cases, appear to be associated with greater anxiety and depression rates
  • Ritual prayers where people simply recite memorized lines or read pre-written prayers from books appeared to have mixed results in terms of depression and anxiety symptoms. Further, ritual prayer appeared to have little impact on sense of strength or in reducing anger (Winkeljohn et al., 2017)

Your view of God’s character + prayer frequency impacts your mental health

  • Prayer frequency, beliefs about the nature of God, and anxiety measures were examined for 1,714 study participants. Prayer by itself, or when combined with a belief in an impersonal, non-caring God, or belief in a God that sometimes cares but sometimes is indifferent, had no significant impact on anxiety measures. Also belief in a personal, responsive caring God in absence of frequent prayer had no significant impact on anxiety measures. But when combining a belief in a caring, responsive God with frequent prayer, participants had lower rates of general anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive patterns, and compulsive patterns (Ellison, Bradshaw, Flannelly, & Galek, 2014)
shallow focus photography of white feather dropping in person's hand
A belief in a personal, caring God combined with frequent prayers using your own words improves mental health measures (Image credit: Javardh)

Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.”

Isaiah 54: 10, NIV

Summary

The study of prayer is complex. The above studies focused on prayer generally from a Christian perspective. The research supporting the benefits of prayer seems to be strongest in terms of supporting mental health–producing an enhanced sense of well-being, decreasing anxiety, and acting as a buffer against life stress/ promoting resilience. However, how a person views God (personal and close versus distant and disinterested), how frequently they pray, how they pray, and how often they attend worship services all seem to enhance or undermine the impacts of prayer on mental health.

Based on the above evidence, the most health promoting aspects of prayer can be realized through the following means:

  • Having a belief in a loving, caring, personal God
  • Frequent prayer using your own thoughts and words, believing God is listening to you, disclosing your own worries, and confessing/ disclosing concerns while asking for guidance, or by meditating on God’s presence/ answers
  • Having a positive sense of awe for God and His beautiful creation (such as an awe for the beauty of nature) during prayer may positively impact emotions that can promote physical healing/ stress reduction

The research concerning the power of prayer for helping someone else recover where the person being prayed for is unaware is mixed to negligible at best. Individual studies have had profound findings, but the findings have not held up consistently when the research is repeated at different times or circumstances. This is not particularly surprising for a believer in the scriptures. In part 1, I reviewed the many caveats the scriptures themselves place on prayer.

Finally, research on prayer and physiologic factors such as heart rate variability and brain imaging is currently limited/ unavailable. These are areas for future exploration. The research at this time appears to support the scriptural perspectives of belief in a loving God, the importance of genuine (as opposed to ritualistic) prayer, and collaborative worship as a means of supporting mental health and well-being.

Related posts

Internal links:

Faith: Prayer & Your Health, Part 1

Stress, Science, & Scriptures

External link:

NPR article: Prayer May Reshape Your Brain … And Your Reality

References

Ai, A. L., Wink, P., Tice, T. N., Bolling, S. F., Shearer, M. (2009). Prayer and reverence in naturalistic, aesthetic, and socio-moral contexts predicted fewer complications following coronary artery bypass. Journal of Behavioral Medicine. DOI 10.1007/s10865-009-9228-1

Anderson, J. W., & Nunnelley, P. A. (2016). Private prayer associations with depression, anxiety and other health conditions: an analytical review of clinical studies [Abstract]. Postgraduate medicine, 128(7), 635–641. https://doi.org/10.1080/00325481.2016.1209962

Ellison, C. G., Bradshaw, M., Flannelly, K. J., & Galek, K. C. (2014). Prayer, Attachment to God, and Symptoms of Anxiety-Related Disorders among U.S. Adults. Sociology of Religion, 75(2), 208–233. https://doi-org.lopesalum.idm.oclc.org/10.1093/socrel/srt079

McCullough, M. E. (1995). Prayer and Health: Conceptual Issues, Research Review, and Research Agenda. Journal of Psychology & Theology, 23(1), 15–29.

Meisenhelder, J. B., & Chandler, E. N. (2001). Frequency of Prayer and Functional Health in Presbyterian Pastors. Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, 40(2), 323–329. https://doi-org.lopesalum.idm.oclc.org/10.1111/0021-8294.00059

Rainville, G. (2018). The Interrelation of Prayer and Worship Service Attendance in Moderating the Negative Impact of Life Event Stressors on Mental Well-Being. Journal of Religion & Health, 57(6), 2153–2166. https://doi-org.lopesalum.idm.oclc.org/10.1007/s10943-017-0494-x

Roberts, L., Ahmed, I., Hall, S., & Davison, A. (2009). Intercessory prayer for the alleviation of ill health. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2009(2), CD000368. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD000368.pub3

Winkeljohn Black, S., Pössel, P., Rosmarin, D. H., Tariq, A., & Jeppsen, B. D. (2017). Prayer Type, Disclosure, and Mental Health Across Religious Groups. Counseling & Values, 62(2), 216–234. https://doi-org.lopesalum.idm.oclc.org/10.1002/cvj.12060

Faith: Prayer & Your Health, Part 1

Faith, Health, and Evidence

(Image credit: eberhard grossgasteiger at Pexels)

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

1 Thess 5: 16-18, NKJV

Is prayer a waste of time? In a culture that increasingly embraces atheism and nihilism, is prayer an outdated relic, left over from prior ages of superstition? Or are we wired deeply within our very creation as spiritual beings? Are there measurable benefits to our health related to the very act of prayer? What do the scriptures say about prayer?

If God is real, and if the scriptures are His method of communicating to us, a person might reasonably expect the principles found in the scriptures to prove beneficial somehow in our lives. Scripture perspectives on prayer, as well as the impact of prayer on our mental and physical health as noted in the research are explored in this series. The first part of this series will explore what the scriptures teach us regarding prayer.

What does the Bible say about prayer?

Is God a cosmic vending machine, a sky-genie ready to bestow all your pleasures based on a simple ask? As a kid I asked for a room full of bubble-gum–didn’t happen. That prayer was stupid, but some prayers that are perfectly reasonable also go seemingly unanswered. If God is real, why does He not always answer our prayers…is there more to it?

A sincere relationship with God is essential

For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” How then shall they call upon him in whom they did not believe? and how shall they believe on him of whom they did not hear? and how shall they hear apart from one preaching?“

Roman 10: 13-14, Young’s Literal Translation

How can you call on a God that you do not believe in, and how can you believe in God unless you hear about Him–His characteristics and teachings, who He is and what He expects from you? Is it not a bit empty to approach a God you do not know, and only when things go wrong in your life?

Is God a great cosmic vending machine in the sky, or is there something more to prayer? (Image credit: Aleksandar Pasaric at Pexels)

Or, to only approach Him when you want a quick and sudden fix? Is it not empty to live a life of disobedience and disinterest with God, then suddenly to petition Him when you want something? God is not mocked.

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.”

Galatians 6: 7-8, NKJV

A solid faith in God built on sincere seeking is required

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony. By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.”

Hebrews 11: 1-3, NKJV

We are not asked to have a blind faith. In fact, faith is to be built on evidence. The scriptures tell us that the evidence for a God can be found manifested within His created world. There are many modern scientists and historic scientists for whom science serves to unravel mysteries of a higher law, purpose, and power. In fact, there is a 27-page (and growing) list of modern scientists who reject the notion of a naturalistic, Darwinian process for explaining the complexities in life forms. Our faith must be built on diligent seeking:

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”

Hebrews 11: 6, NKJV
To approach God you must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him (Image credit: Pixabay at Pexels)

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.”

James 1: 5-8, NKJV

Our sins place a barrier between us and God

Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened,
That it cannot save;
Nor His ear heavy,
That it cannot hear.
But your iniquities have separated you from your God;
And your sins have hidden His face from you,
So that He will not hear.
For your hands are defiled with blood,
And your fingers with iniquity;
Your lips have spoken lies,
Your tongue has muttered perversity.”

Isaiah 59: 1-3, NKJV

We are to humble ourselves and turn from our sins when approaching God

if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

2 Chron 7: 14, NKJV

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.”

James 4: 8-10, NKJV
man standing on black rock formation during daytime
Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord (Image credit: Nuno Silva)

Prayers are to be given with a submission to His will

Going back to confronting the “sky-genie” approach, the scriptures are clear that prayer requests are granted to those of a humble heart, who approach God in sincerity and faith, and prayers are granted in accordance to God’s will–not necessarily ours. Sometimes, our desires are knowingly or unknowingly in opposition to God…if granted, such desires may result in more harm than good in our spiritual journey during this limited life.

…Yet you do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures. Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. Or do you think that the Scripture says in vain, “The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously”?

James 4: 2-5, NKJV

Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.”

1 John 5: 14-15

Accepting His will means sometimes, the answer is “no.”

Many people grow angry at God or give up their belief in God when God does not answer their prayers in accordance with their wishes. A humble believer must recognize that even Christ and Paul were denied some of their requests. The scriptures are clear that suffering and death are components of this life. Christ himself pleaded the night before his crucifixion for another way, a way aside from the torture he was about to endure.

…and He began to be troubled and deeply distressed. Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch.” He went a little farther, and fell on the ground, and prayed that if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.”

Mark 14: 33-36, NKJV

Paul, a writer of numerous books in the Bible and one of the greatest messengers of God who ever lived, was denied three prayer requests concerning a “thorn in the flesh…,” a suffering he had to endure. Paul acknowledges his prayer request was denied, but noted that the suffering served to strengthen his resolve and reliance on God.

and that by the exceeding greatness of the revelations I might not be exalted overmuch, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of the Adversary, that he might buffet me, that I might not be exalted overmuch. Concerning this thing thrice the Lord did I call upon, that it might depart from me, and He said to me, ‘Sufficient for thee is My grace, for My power in infirmity is perfected;’ most gladly, therefore, will I rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of the Christ may rest on me: wherefore I am well pleased in infirmities, in damages, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses — for Christ; for whenever I am infirm, then I am powerful;”

2 Cor 12: 7-10, Young’s Literal Translation
white concrete statue during daytime
Prayer and faith do not guarantee a life free of suffering, such principles are not founded in the scriptures (Image credit: Wesley Tingey)

We are to approach God with a spirit of gratitude

Paul is a great example of resilience despite the circumstances of his life. Recounting his sufferings, he states:

From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness— besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to stumble, and I do not burn with indignation?“

2 Cor 11: 24-29, NKJV

Yet, in spite of his hardships, he instructs us:

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Philip 4: 6-7, NKJV

What the Lord’s prayer teaches us about praying

The Lord’s prayer as presented by Christ serves as a model for our own prayer. Not that we need to repeat this prayer word for word, but rather, it demonstrates the mindset with which we are to approach God when we make our petitions to him. As recorded in the book of Matthew:

And — praying — ye may not use vain repetitions like the nations, for they think that in their much speaking they shall be heard, be ye not therefore like to them, for your Father doth know those things that ye have need of before your asking him; thus therefore pray ye:

‘Our Father who [art] in the heavens! hallowed be Thy name. ‘Thy reign come: Thy will come to pass, as in heaven also on the earth. ‘Our appointed bread give us to-day. ‘And forgive us our debts, as also we forgive our debtors. ‘And mayest Thou not lead us to temptation, but deliver us from the evil, because Thine is the reign, and the power, and the glory — to the ages. Amen. ‘For, if ye may forgive men their trespasses He also will forgive you — your Father who in the heavens; but if ye may not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

Matthew 6: 7-15, Young’s Literal Translation

Christ’s attitude towards God was one of deference, worship, and respect. This attitude played out in his life on earth. In his prayer, Christ acknowledges God’s rule, God’s promise of a kingdom to come, and acknowledges His will as supreme. The prayer requests our daily needs be met, while with humility, requests forgiveness. It fosters a spirit of grace within us, that we forgive others just like we want forgiveness. Finally, we are to acknowledge our own fallibility, acknowledging that we are tempted, and we pray for deliverance from these temptations.

Summary

This series will cover aspects of prayer and in the next post, discuss the impacts of prayer on our mental and physical health. However, understanding prayer from a scriptural perspective helps ground us, helping us to approach our Creator with the mindset He intended. Prayer, in accordance with the Biblical perspective, is not the same as pressing a button on some cosmic vending machine. Rather, prayer is a mental exercise in cultivating an attitude of gratitude, of forgiveness, and of humility. Prayer is an acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty in our lives, an opportunity to reflect on our needs, and a request for divine-given strength against our own destructive lusts and desires.

Faith: Trust Not in Man, In Whom There is no Hope

Faith, Health, and Evidence

Image credit: Birmingham Museums Trust

“Do not put your trust in princes, Nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help. His spirit departs, he returns to his earth; In that very day his plans perish.” –Psalms 146: 3-4

What is our hope? What hope do we have in this life or in this world? I blog about fitness and health, as we can make the most of the hand we have been dealt in life by wisely cultivating health promoting choices and habits.

These habits may impact how many healthy years we have, economic costs to ourselves and family, and how we feel (our quality of life) during those years. However, at the end of the day, none of us escapes our mortality. So what is our hope?

Will science lead us to a golden age of peace, love, and happiness?

Is our hope in science? Will science and academia lead us to a brave new age of equality, evenly distributed wealth, happiness, health, and peace? If the past is any indication of the future, the answer is a robust “no.”

First of all, science is incapable of providing guidance on morality, such is not within the scope or purpose of science (Carroll, 2010). As Sean Carroll, a theoretical physicist notes:

“The big problems of morality, to state the obvious, come about because the interests of different individuals come into conflict. Even if we somehow agreed perfectly on what constituted the well-being of a single individual — or, more properly, even if we somehow “objectively measured” well-being, whatever that is supposed to mean — it would generically be the case that no achievable configuration of the world provided perfect happiness for everyone” (Carroll, 2010, section 3, para 1).

Carroll goes on to state:

“So how are we to decide how to balance one person’s well-being against another’s? To do this scientifically, we need to be able to make sense of statements like “this person’s well-being is precisely 0.762 times the well-being of that person.” What is that supposed to mean? Do we measure well-being on a linear scale, or is it logarithmic? Do we simply add up the well-beings of every individual person, or do we take the average? And would that be the arithmetic mean, or the geometric mean? Do more individuals with equal well-being each mean greater well-being overall? Who counts as an individual? Do embryos? What about dolphins? Artificially intelligent robots?” (Carroll, 2010, section 3, para 2).

Questions of morality can not be answered in a lab (Image credit: Chokniti Khongchum at Pexels)

Any argument for rights, duties, obligations, and distribution of limited resources is going to encountered by arguments that those rights, duties, obligations, and limited resources are to be extended or allocated elsewhere. Science cannot answer these questions.

Whose rights, what creatures’ rights for that matter, are honored? Animals? Insects? Bacteria? Plants? Artificial intelligence? With rights comes obligations and duties on the part of others. How can science prescribe who has responsibilities and duties and to what cause? Based on what? Based on what’s best for humanity? Says who? What if what is best for humanity is not the best for other species? Besides, how do you define “best” for humanity? Is it quality of life? What is “quality of life”–that means different things to different people.

Can we trust in the “goodness” of humanity?

According to humanists, “Humanism is a democratic and ethical life stance, which affirms that human beings have the right and responsibility to give meaning and shape to their own lives” (BBC, 2009, para 6). That sounds beautiful. However, if human beings have the right and responsibility to give meaning and shape to their own lives…what if that meaning and shape for me means taking your things for myself–by force and violence if necessary? Some people actually find meaning and shape in their lives by harming others. Is that ok, if its “what gives them meaning?”

“Humanism is democratic…” Ok. Majority rules. The norm throughout history has been that the masses of one group, society or nation exploit and take things by force from other weaker nations, other groups of people, or societies. Because the majority within a society hold a certain value at a given moment in time, does that mean that such a value is “right?” How can humanism differentiate between what one democratic society or group of people “wants” and another democratic society or group of people wants when both societies are in conflict with one another?

Are humans “basically good?” Can we trust in the goodness of humanity to eventually “figure it out?” To usher in an age of utopia, equality in rights and resource distribution, environmental subsistence, and sentient-being equanimity? The past strongly suggests otherwise.

Many people think the Nazi movement was an exception in history, a freak occurrence where the worst conditions imaginable conspired together to create a singular example of the darkest potential held within human capabilities. However, a quick study of history tells you that such dark horrors are not the exception for human movements–instead, they are common and have occurred both before and after World War II. In fact, mass extortion and genocide occurred throughout known history.

As noted by anthropologist and author Jared Diamond:

“The cruel reality is that there have been lots of genocides since the end of World War II, a couple of them topping 1 million and quite a few topping 100,000. That’s because we’ve got this false view that genocide is something that’s done by rare, crazy people like the Nazis. And the fact is that it is a widespread phenomenon in human history, that lots of people have done under various circumstances” (Diamond as cited in Venables, 2013, para 5).

green helicopter near big fire
Genocide, war, extortion–these are not the exceptions but the norm in our human history (Image credit: Chandler Cruttenden)

Can we trust in large groups of humans working together for a common cause to do the right thing? Our common humanity and history suggests we absolutely can not. What seems “right” (such as vengeance or justice or some other rationalized justification) to one group at one given point in time frequently is reflected upon as an atrocity by other groups.

Academia: Can we trust in our elite, enlightened minds? Our “best and brightest?”

The professors, those in academia, who devote their lives to garnering knowledge concerning science, ethics, religion, and history among other disciplines…perhaps these highly educated, wise instructors can guide ourselves and our youth to a brighter world. Certainly, they see themselves as responsible for doing such–in the U.S., many universities see themselves at the forefront of social justice movements and as the new providers of instruction in modern, secular morality. Here too, lessons from the recent past can provide instruction and warning for the future.

In the book Mao: The Unknown Story (Chang & Halliday, 2006), the rise of communism in China is traced from its early roots, through the communist revolution, the following culture wars and up to the time of Mao’s passing. During the social revolution of China, more than 70 million Chinese perished due to war, starvation, and orchestrated genocide. Mao Tse Tung, eventual ruler of the Communist party in China during its rise, first encountered its Marxism-Leninism teachings, principles, and tenets as a professor at Peking University. Among university students and professors across China, communism principles imported mainly from the Soviet Union found fertile soil (Chang & Halliday, 2006). By the time many of the students who signed up as foot soldiers for the revolution were able to see the principles play out in real life across China, the movement was too strong and well-armed to leave it or stop it.

cars parked in front of red and brown building
Over 70 Million perished as Mao Tse Tung implemented his “enlightened” principles (Image credit: Nick Fewings)

Pol Pot, the communist dictator of Cambodia during its revolution and responsible for over 1.5-2 million deaths in Cambodia due to genocide, starvation, and war, encountered Marxism-Leninism while in Paris on a scholarship. Himself educated at elite schools and later a teacher at a private school, he sought to employ the communist principles in his home country of Cambodia (History.com, 2018). Imagine how shocked I was during my Bachelor’s program when my own university had required readings that were: openly sympathetic to Marxism, posed considerations about the ethics and pros/ cons of “post-birth abortion,”–meaning the child has been born already and is then killed, showed sympathy for China’s violently enforced 1-child policy, promoted moral relativism “what is wrong for me is not necessarily wrong for you” and “who are we to say what is right, or what is wrong” among other stunning “high brow” concepts.

Who are we to judge–oh really? Can we at least agree genocide, starvation, and death of 60 million people is wrong no matter the culture? Indeed, it was the “enlightened” classes of academics, philosophers, and the highly educated that stoked the fires of the French (Schama, 1989) and the Russian Revolution (Duncan, 2020) through manipulation of the population. Like in China and Cambodia, those that were supposed to benefit from such revolutions often paid the highest price.

Rather than freedom or equality, terror and tyranny ensued in the years that followed these revolutions. To be clear, none of these places were social utopias prior to the revolutions, and many of the grievances of the population were often real and justifiable. However, the enlightened minds of Russia, France, Cambodia, China, and many nations led the populations into horror, death, and despair on unimaginable scales when implementing their “educated” philosophies.

Can we trust organized religion?

“Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here.” (John 18: 36, NKJV)

It seems the Catholic Church has been doing a lot of apologizing lately. From the infamous plague of pedophilia and coverups to despicable complacency, and in some cases, facilitation of murder during the Rwandan Genocide (Carmody, n.d.), the Church has a prolonged history of cruelty, torture, murder, political intrigue, cover up, and other atrocities. And such is not just limited to the Catholic Church. Indeed, churches in the north ,and churches in the south during America’s Civil War encouraged Christians to kill each other along with other population groups in their “service to God.” The same has played out throughout history across the globe.

skull digital wallpaper
Organized religion has often been either complicit with or even an active promoter and perpetrator of atrocities (Image credit: Malcolm Lightbody)

Many churches purposefully ignore Christ’s example and teachings. Christ himself grew up under the thumb of the Roman Dictatorship. He did not raise up a rebellion against Rome. Nor did he attempt to overthrow the corrupt leadership of the Jewish leaders of his day. He rejected attempts to make him king (John 6:15). He famously replied when asked about paying taxes to the oppressive Roman government “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” (Mark 12:17; NKJV).

Frequently, leaders of churches forget that “…our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Phil 3: 20; NKJV). This is despite the examples of Christ and Paul (among many others in the scriptures) who saw themselves as in the world but not of the world, who saw their kingdom as not one of politics but of a separate, heavenly nature. Churches and church leaders see fit to take political stances that when reviewed after the fact frequently throughout history, facilitate tragedies and travesties. Indeed, the world will wage its wars, run its revolts and revolutions, claim its many righteous causes to justify horrors. This will never change in this age. We are to follow Christ and use our talents to help others while remembering “If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.” (John 15:19, KJV).

In whom do we trust?

“The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.” (Ps 28: 7; NKJV)

If you say, “I trust in myself,” I ask you to reflect how many times your desires have led you down a path you later regretted? As Christ teaches: “But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man.” (Matt 15: 19-20)

Instead, our duty in this life is summarized by Christ: “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets” (Matt 22: 37-40; NKJV).

What if that means hardship? As Paul notes, following Christ is NEVER a guarantee of an easy life: “Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. 24 Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. 25 

cross stand under purple and blue sky
“And yet I show you a more excellent way.” I Cor 12: 31 (Image credit: Aaron Burden)

“Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, 26 I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. 27 I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. 28 Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. 29 Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn? (2 Cor 11: 23-29; NKJV)

And yet, Paul also tells us: “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: 12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Phillipians 4: 11-13, NKJV)

Indeed, a duty to learn His ways, His commandments, to learn about His truths and works, to teach others, and to put these things into action to help others–such are the examples left to us by Christ and His disciples. Then, on that day of our inevitable death, we hope to hear ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ (Matt 25: 34-36; NKJV).

Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed!!! Feel free to leave a comment, or sign up for e-mail to receive notice whenever I release a new post!

References

BBC. (2009). Humanism. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/atheism/types/humanism.shtml

Carmody, E. (n.d.). The Catholic Church, the Rwandan genocide, and reconciliation. Retrieved from https://www.avila.edu/_userfiles/Education/Fulbright-Hays%20Project/Educator%20Microsite/Special%20Topic%20Presentations/The_Catholic_Church_and_the_Rwan.pdf

Carroll, S. (2010). Science And morality: You can’t derive ‘ought’ from ‘is.’ Retrieved from https://www.npr.org/sections/13.7/2010/05/04/126504492/you-can-t-derive-ought-from-is

Chang, J. & Halliday, J. (2006). Mao: The unknown story. New York, NY: Random House, Inc

Duncan, M. (2020). Revolutions podcast: Season 10: The Russion Revolution [Pod cast]. https://www.revolutionspodcast.com/

History.com. (2018). Pol Pot. Retrieved from https://www.history.com/topics/cold-war/pol-pot

Schama, S. (1989). Citizens: A Chronicle of the French Revolution. New York, NY: Random House

Venables, M. (2013). Jared Diamond on traditional society, warfare And eschewing technology plus updated commentary. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaelvenables/2013/02/12/jared-diamond-and-updated-commentary/#277cb9742bf5

Research Findings to Maximize Your Health & Pleasure!

Faith, Health, and Evidence, Mental Health and Wellness, Plant-based Diets, Entomophagy, and Evidence, Sexual Health

Maximize your mental and physical health, maximize your pleasure! (Image credit: Asad Photo Maldives at Pexels)

–I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. (John 10: 10, NKJV)

Want a great sex life? Master your mental and physical health! By choosing habits and patterns that enhance your mental and physical health, you are able to most fully reap the rewards of one of life’s greatest pleasures and gifts from God…sex!

Sexual health as a marker of general health

The scriptures abound with verses that emphasize self-governance and avoidance of excess. Turns out, such excesses can damage your physical and mental health. Not only that, but they negatively impact your ability to fully enjoy sex.

Researchers note that optimal sexual health requires a complex interplay involving endocrine system function, neurological health, vascular health, and emotional wellness (Mollaioli, Ciocca, Limoncin, Di Sante, Gravina, Carosa, Lenzi, & Jannini, 2020). Said another way, any habit or pattern that damages your blood vessels, nerves, disrupts your hormones, or leads to emotional distress can have a significant negative impact on your ongoing ability to enjoy a healthy and robust sex life. The scriptures were given to us to enhance our lives, not restrict us from the pleasures God has given us to enjoy.

Benefits of a healthy sex life

A healthy sex life predicts an improved sense of well being, improved self-esteem, better relationships, and is associated with greater overall physical health (Mollaioli et al., 2020). With care, a healthy, satisfying and active sex life including intercourse can be enjoyed–even with relative intercourse frequency such as twice a month or more–into your 80’s and 90’s!!! (Lee, Nazroo, O’Connor, Blake, & Pendleton, 2016). Conversely, failure to guard your health can lead to numerous problems, including erectile dysfunction, anxiety, pain, dissatisfaction, and a low level of sexual desire (Lee et al., 2016). Indeed, sexual dysfunction can be an early warning sign of various physical and psychological disorders/ diseases (Bostock-Cox, 2015).

Habits and health factors that predict sexual dysfunction

Not every factor impacting our sex lives is directly within our control. However, the following habits or health factors ARE modifiable. Failure to change these habits, or address these health factors if present, strongly predicts sexual dysfunction:

  • Obesity
  • Smoking (raises erectile dysfunction risk by 50%, reduces stimulation to genitals by 30% immediately after smoking, ex-smokers have rates of erectile dysfunction 30% higher than non-smokers)
  • Sedentary lifestyle/ no routine exercise
  • Hypertension
  • Diabetes
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Depression
  • Self-rated health status of fair to poor health
  • Alcohol consumption in excess (binge drinking increases risk of erection dysfunction in males, alcohol dependence in women decreases desire and quality of orgasm)
  • Drug use/ abuse–including marijuana (for males) as it reduces testosterone levels, though marijuana may enhance drive in females (Feldhaus-Dahir, 2009; Lee et al., 2016; Mollaioli et al., 2020)
Smoking reduces genital sensitivity in the short-term, while increasing risks of erectile dysfunction in the long-term (Image credit: Basil MK at Pexels)

If you have any of the above conditions, addressing them through partnership with healthcare providers along with a serious pursuit of healthy dietary and lifestyle changes can mean improvements for your sex life now and into the future!!! Other factors that may reduce sexual function or desire include mental health conditions such as anxiety, psychological stress, and disharmony within a relationship. Certainly, low testosterone levels are a risk factor as well, for both men and women (Bostock-Cox, 2015).

Medications such as beta-blockers (often given for anxiety, heart rhythm disorders, and high blood pressure), estrogen hormone therapy, anti-depressant medications, and various psychiatric medications can negatively impact sexual function (Bostock-Cox, 2015; Feldhaus-Dahir, 2009). If you have concerns that your medications may be impeding your sex life, discuss such concerns with your health care provider. Many times alternative medications might be found to treat the underlying medical concern while having less of an impact on sexual function (Bostock-Cox, 2015).

Obesity and sexual dysfunction

Obesity negatively impacts sexual health due to a number of factors. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes occur more commonly in persons who are obese (Mollaioli et al., 2020). Further, obese people experience negative psychological impacts such as depression, perceiving/ experiencing social stigmas, and perceiving/ experiencing weight-related discrimination.

Research notes as many as 1 in 5 persons with obesity experience pain during sex, sexual dissatisfaction (females), erectile dysfunction (males), and poor arousal levels/ low levels of sexual desire (Mollaioli et al., 2020). For men, a body mass index (BMI) over 28.7 is linked to a 30% increase in erectile dysfunction compared those with a normal BMI under 25. Complications from overweight/ obesity can involve dysfunction of the lining of the blood vessels leading to a decreased ability for the vessels to dilate even before the onset of other cardiovascular disease features (Mollaioli et al., 2020). Plant-based diets are strongly associated with reduced rates of obesity and obesity related illnesses (see linked post for data and references).

Physical activity and sexual health

Research has demonstrated improvements in blood sugar control as well as improved vascular function and lower rates of erectile dysfunction for those that exercise routinely at moderate to vigorous levels (Mollaioli et al., 2020). One study found that 8 weeks of exercise lasting 45-60 minutes per day improved erections in men with hypertension when compared against a control group that did not exercise. Another study found exercising 150 minutes per week over a 3 month period resulted in significant improvements in erection quality and improvements in the health of the cells lining the blood vessels of the participants (Mollaioli et al., 2020).

For women, a lack of exercise doubles the rates of sexual dysfunction! For those dependent on medications for erectile dysfunction, exercise nearly doubled the efficacy of these drugs!! Three hours of aerobic exercise per week over a three month period for men increased the erection medication efficacy to nearly 80% versus approximately 40% in the control group! (Mollaioli et al., 2020).

Exercise in the right amounts can boost mental and physical health as well as improve sexual function (Image credit: Immortal Shots at Pexels)

In additional to improved vascular health and blood sugar control, routine exercise improves other factors related to sexual health. Exercise improves self-esteem, body image, can improve mood, sleep quality, and can reduce anxiety and depression severity (Mollaioli et al., 2020). For the sake of immune system health and hormonal balance (including testosterone to cortisol ratios), such exercise bouts should be kept to within an hour or less per episode (see my post “Healthy Lifestyle & Still Getting Sick? Part 2: Training Approaches” for more information on optimal versus harmful amounts of exercise and training in terms of immune system function and hormonal balances).

Mediterranean diet protects against erectile dysfunction & sexual dysfunction in males and females

A Mediterranean diet has demonstrated efficacy in helping people maintain a lower BMI as well as improving sexual health and preventing erectile and sexual dysfunction (Mollaioli et al., 2020). Mediterranean diets are predominantly plant-based!!! Legumes, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, olive oil, with very limited or no intake of meat, dairy, or processed foods characterizes the Mediterranean diet. Not only does the plant-dominant Mediterranean diet improve your sex life, it is also delicious!!!

A reduction in weight for obese participants resulted in improvements in the function of insulin, boosted testosterone, and boosted erection quality in diabetic and non-diabetic participants (Mollaioli et al., 2020). Mediterranean diets improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, provide substantial amounts of antioxidants, and are believed to improve vascular function. Not only does the Mediterranean diet address the physical risk factors for sexual dysfunction, but research has also demonstrated reductions in anxiety and depression upon adopting the diet (Mollaioli et al., 2020).

Insufficient stress management can sabotage your sex life

Its very important to note that I listed “insufficient stress management” as opposed “stress” as a source of sabotage for your sex life. As I explain with supporting research in a separate post titled “Stress & Anxiety can be…Good?,” stress itself can be a motivator and driver of goal achievement and success. However, it is important that stress is offset by restorative habits and rest time that allow for proper resetting of hormone levels and recovery in between stress events (Dhabhar, 2018).

Failure to recover properly in between stress events leads to chronic elevations of cortisol and decreases subsequently in testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone and other sex related hormones (Mollaioli et al., 2020). These hormone imbalances lead to decreases in sexual desire and decreased physical arousal. An interesting research study noted that men taking medications for erectile dysfunction who were trained in diaphragmatic (abdominal) breathing and muscle relaxation techniques had improved erections over and above those who took medications alone! (Kalaitzidou, Venetikou, Konstadinidis, Artemiadis, Chrousos, & Darviri, 2014 as cited in Mollaioli et al., 2020).

Stress management is critical for a healthy sex life–stress is inevitable, restorative practices are essential (Image credit: Luis Quintero at Pexels)

Researchers also noted lower levels of morning cortisol in the men that performed the abdominal breathing and muscle relaxation techniques (Kalaitzidou et al., 2014 as cited in Mollaioli et al., 2020). Even when psychologically aroused, genital arousal can be hampered when people report feeling high levels of chronic stress. Distractions in addition to hormonal factors can interfere with physical arousal (Mollaioli et al., 2020). As I note in the post “Stress & Anxiety can be…Good?,” stress can NOT be avoided and has numerous positive effects. However, it is important that relaxation techniques such as meditation, practice of faith, and other mitigating practices are used to allow the body and mind to reset.

Pornography and sexual satisfaction

Frequent use of pornography has been repeatedly linked in the research to decreased sexual satisfaction (Miller, McBain, Li, & Raggatt, 2019). Also, the use of pornography could not be attributed to any underlying relationship dissatisfaction, meaning persons were not driven to the pornography due to dissatisfaction already existing in a relationship (Miller et al., 2019). As such, pornography use regardless of relationship satisfaction resulted in a reduction in sex life satisfaction!!!

The researchers also found masturbation tied to porn use frequency was negatively associated with sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction (Miller et al., 2019). The researchers noted potential causative factors associated with frequent pornography related masturbation may involve increases in post-orgasm refractory periods leading to decreased arousal when attempting sex with a partner. Separate research notes that pornography use can increase a person’s dissatisfaction with their partner’s sexual appearance and sexual performance (Zillmann & Bryant, 1988 as cited in Miller et al., 2019).

Research into pornography and sexual / relationship satisfaction is rife with confounding factors such as religious views, morality, factors leading to use of pornography in the first place, etc. The strength of the negative effects also vary in the research. However, as noted already, numerous research studies across various nations and even various time periods tend to repeatedly find negative associations between pornography frequency and sexual satisfaction (Miller et al., 2019)–a theme that can hardly be ignored if you desire improvements in your own sex life. I tackle the subject of porn and sexual health in greater detail in my post “How Porn is Wrecking Our Sex Lives (and more): Current Evidence.“

Summary

If you want to maximize your sexual health and enjoyment, take care of your body and your mind!! The choices you make in your past-time activities, the foods you eat, your decision to exercise or not exercise, and your ability to find and practice restorative activities all impact your ability to enjoy one of our greatest God-given experiences–SEX! Maximize your physical health, maximize your ability to manage stress and cope with the challenges you face, and maximize your pleasure!!! Live well!

Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed! Feel free to share this post, and/ or sign-up on my mailing list to receive notice when I release new posts!! Sincerely, Donovan

References

Bostock-Cox, B. (2015). Long term conditions, medication and sexual health. Practice Nurse, 45(11), 22–25. Retrieved from http://web.a.ebscohost.com.lopesalum.idm.oclc.org/ehost/detail/detail?vid=8&sid=59399d50-2488-48ee-858a-698c9443ddea%40sdc-v-sessmgr02&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#AN=111058850&db=cin20

Dhabhar F. S. (2018). The short-term stress response – Mother nature’s mechanism for enhancing protection and performance under conditions of threat, challenge, and opportunity. Frontiers in neuroendocrinology, 49, 175–192. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yfrne.2018.03.004

Feldhaus-Dahir, M. (2009). The Causes and Prevalence of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: Part I. Urologic Nursing, 29(4), 259–263. Retrieved from http://web.a.ebscohost.com.lopesalum.idm.oclc.org/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=8&sid=5acbcc7d-b7ca-426f-b4f5-bf837533a2be%40sdc-v-sessmgr03

Lee, D. M., Nazroo, J., O’Connor, D. B., Blake, M., & Pendleton, N. (2016). Sexual Health and Well-being Among Older Men and Women in England: Findings from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 45(1). pp. 133-144. ISSN 0004-0002

Miller, D. J., McBain, K. A., Li, W. W., & Raggatt, P. T. F. (2019). Pornography, preference for porn‐like sex, masturbation, and men’s sexual and relationship satisfaction. Personal Relationships, 26(1), 93–113. https://doi-org.lopesalum.idm.oclc.org/10.1111/pere.12267

Mollaioli, D., Ciocca, G., Limoncin, E., Di Sante, S., Gravina, G. L., Carosa, E., Lenzi, A., & Jannini, E. A. F. (2020). Lifestyles and sexuality in men and women: the gender perspective in sexual medicine. Reproductive Biology & Endocrinology, 18(1), 1–11. https://doi-org.lopesalum.idm.oclc.org/10.1186/s12958-019-0557-9

Faith, Science, & Health: A Healthy Relationship with Work

Faith, Health, and Evidence

Principles taught in the scriptures are supported by modern science for optimizing teamwork, productivity, and stress management (Image credit: Lukas at Pexels)

Not surprisingly, work is a significant source of stress for many people. This makes sense. Author and researcher McGonnigal (2015) notes in her book The Upside of Stress: Why Stress is Good for You (and how to get good at it) that we experience stress when something important to us is at stake.

Having an unhealthy relationship with work can contribute to a number of health issues. Perceptions of high workloads, low social support, and perceptions of imbalance between effort versus rewards are significantly correlated with insomnia, for example (Yang et al., 2018). Job burnout perceptions were found to be predictive of health problems such as depression, heart disease, cardiac events requiring hospitalization, diabetes, pain, and even mortality in people under age 45 (Salvagioni, Melanda, Mesas, González, Gabani, & Andrade, 2017). Health care workers, teachers, and workers in fields that are highly interactive and emotional experience higher rates of exhaustion and burnout (Luken & Sammons, 2016).

Yet, as McGonnigal (2015) discusses, having the appropriate mindset (such as recognizing anxiety as your body’s way of giving you energy–which research strongly supports), finding purpose and meaning in your challenges, and helping others drastically reduces your health risks despite stress and even trauma. If God is real, designed us, and the scriptures are His primary method of communicating too us , then principles should be found to help us in our daily lives. Indeed, the scriptures abound with research-backed, practical wisdom to assist us in our work mindset and work life balance.

Humility boosts performance for leaders and team members

Research has found that when BOTH leaders and their followers are humble, a sense of passion for the work increases, leaders and followers feel more at harmony with one another, and performance improves for employees as rated by their supervisors (Diao, Song, Wang, & Zhong, 2019). Humility is defined by a willingness to admit mistakes and personal limitations, recognizing strengths and contributions of others, and openness to feedback and new ideas. Notably, humility in leaders can positively influence humility in workers, but if workers fail to express humility themselves, these benefits are lost. In other words, both leaders and followers benefit when they take on a humble approach to their work (Diao et al., 2019).

Scriptures have taught humility for thousands of years!!

Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. (Matthew 23:12, KJV)

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.. (Colossians 3:12-13, NKJV)

Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid. (Proverbs 12: 1, NIV)

Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. (1 Peter 3: 8, KJV)

There are MANY scriptural verses on the power of humility, click here for a list of just some of those verses. Its only when we are humble that we open ourselves to shoring up strengths, collaborating with others of differing viewpoints. With humility, we create an atmosphere where there is maximal learning, sharing, identification of risks, and correction.

A strong work ethic protects you from work related stressors

Research has demonstrated that strong work values–beliefs that hard work benefits us both materially and provides self-esteem and purpose–are protective against common work stressors such as frequent interruptions (Zoupanou & Rydstedt, 2017). Research has repeatedly demonstrated lower psychological distress, lower physical health complaints, and higher ratings of well being in persons that view hard work as valuable (Zoupanou & Rydstedt, 2017).

Interestingly, these values were protective for both employed and currently unemployed persons during the time of the research studies (Zoupanou & Rydstedt, 2017). For both persons born into poverty or into wealthier settings, having a growth mindset–defined as seeing challenges as ways to improve abilities and seeking out such challenging experiences–proved a strong predictor of achievement (Claro, Paunesku, & Dweck, 2016). Conversely, avoiding challenges proved predictive of poor performance and achievement (Claro et al., 2016).

Those that view hard work as valuable increase their protection against many of the risks associated with stress (Image credit: Chevanon Photography at Pexels)

The scriptures emphasize the value of hard work and self-discipline

Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, which, having no captain, overseer or ruler, provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest. How long will you slumber, o sluggard? When will you rise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep—so shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, and your need like an armed man. (Proverbs 6: 6-11, NKJV)

I went by the field of the lazy man, and by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding; and there it was, all overgrown with thorns; its surface was covered with nettles; its stone wall was broken down. When I saw it, I considered it well; I looked on it and received instruction: a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest; so shall your poverty come like a prowler, and your need like an armed man. (Proverbs 24: 30-34, NKJV)

Blessed is every one who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways. When you eat the labor of your hands, you shall be happy, and it shall be well with you. (Psalms 128: 1-2, NKJV)

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going. (Ecclesiastes 9: 10, NKJV)

But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. (1 Timothy 5: 8, NKJV)

Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need. (Ephesians 4: 28, NKJV)

Because of laziness the building decays, And through idleness of hands the house leaks. (Ecclesiastes 10: 18, NKJV)

Hard work is the tool God has given us to bring order out of chaos as referenced by the above verses. What is fascinating is that his creation of the world is compared to labor, during which God institutes the sabbath day as rest (Genesis chapter 1 & 2). Indeed, our very universe, even our personal health, represents order despite the forces of chaos (Morris, 1997).

Rest and recovery are essential

While work and stress can be useful for achieving financial goals, providing a sense of purpose, providing self-esteem and meaning, among other benefits, excessive hours without rest and recuperation can be destructive to mental and physical health over time (Hsu, Bai, Yang, Huang, Lin, & Lin, 2019; McGonnigal, 2015). Working overtime was associated with decreased perceptions of work-life balance, a greater sense of psychological stress, greater fatigue, greater job dissatisfaction, lower productivity, and poor quality of life (Hsu et al., 2019). A sense of control over time however reduced the negative effects of long hours on job satisfaction.

According to the Effort-Recovery Model, workers in high stress jobs need to achieve psychological detachment from their work during non-working hours in order to boost productivity (Hsu et al., 2019). This psychological detachment reduces the risks of burnout, improves psychological health, improves sense of well being in the job role, and may have corresponding physical, behavioral, and psychological positive health implications. The Effort-Recovery Model is supported with related research on the need for our nervous system to move back and forth between the “fight or flight” and the “rest and digest” arms of the nervous system for optimal health (click here for more information) (Dhabhar, 2018).

The implementation and maintaining of a weekly sabbath (day of rest) can be found in the religious practices of several modern religions such as Orthodox Judaism, the Seventh Day Adventists, various sects of Christianity and others (Superville, Pargament, & Lee, 2014). The commandments for the sabbath can be found in the Bible in the book of Exodus 20: 8-11. While various religious groups restrict various activities during the sabbath day, a commonality includes a weekly reprieve from work and even household chores (Superville et al., 2014).

Other similar characteristics for those that observe the sabbath include the practice of prayer, avoidance of distance travel, participation in religious services, time spent with visiting family, communal gatherings, and other restorative practices (Superville et al., 2014). Research supports the mental restorative powers of sabbath keeping. For example, regular keeping of the sabbath was shown to improve a sense of religious support and religious coping, both of which showed STRONGER effects on mental health than diet or exercise (Superville et al., 2014).

Positive emotions and health have been linked consistently in the literature (Superville et al., 2014). Worship services allow opportunities for worship, praise, expressions of gratitude, and a general focus on positive and hopeful thoughts. Further, worship services provide opportunities for socialization, reductions in loneliness, can invoke feelings of hope, and induce feelings of peace (Superville et al., 2014). Hope, socialization, gratitude, meditative practices, practices of faith, and optimism all have been found to support resilience against trauma and stress (for more specifics, click here).

Spending your off time in restorative practices such as worship, prayer, and social connection support mental health when working in stressful professions (Image credit: Inna Lesyk at Pexels)

Work life balance is supported in the scriptures

Thus the heavens and the earth, and all the host of them, were finished. And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made. (Genesis 2: 1-3, NKJV)

Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it. (Exodus 20: 8-11, NKJV)

And He said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath.” (Mark 2: 27, NKJV)

Do not overwork to be rich; because of your own understanding, cease!
Will you set your eyes on that which is not? For riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away like an eagle toward heaven. (Prov 23: 4-5, NKJV)

It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows; for so He gives His beloved sleep. (Psalms 127: 2, NKJV)

Better a handful with quietness, than both hands full, together with toil and grasping for the wind. (Ecclesiastes 4: 6, NKJV)

Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun: there is one alone, without companion:
he has neither son nor brother. Yet there is no end to all his labors, nor is his eye satisfied with riches. But he never asks, “For whom do I toil and deprive myself of good?” This also is vanity and a grave misfortune. (Ecclesiastes 4: 7-8, NKJV)

The scriptures match research again, noting that hard work is essential–but noting also the need for rest, gathering together, and disconnecting from our labor. These scriptures note the vanity of chasing riches. They teach that working excessive hours in pursuit of wealth rarely leads to satisfaction, comparing it with grasping at the wind.

Summary

The scriptures match science in terms of establishing healthy work mindsets and habits. Humility, openness to correction, recognizing others’ talents are useful in creating healthy team dynamics when embraced by workers and leaders alike. Adopting a strong work ethic and mindset, embracing challenges as training opportunities, and finding a sense of purpose in your work boosts mental and physical health and protects against the stress inherent in various occupations. Finally, rest and recuperation with a balance between work hours and hours spent on positive recovery activities improve productivity and health. All of these principles have been taught throughout the scriptures for thousands of years!

Related posts

Resilience Against Stress: Genetics or Lifestyle?

Stress & Anxiety can be…Good?

Stress, Science, & Scriptures

References

Claro, S., Paunesku, D., & Dweck, C. S. (2016). Growth mindset tempers the effects of poverty on academic achievement. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 113(31), 8664–8668. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1608207113

Dhabhar F. S. (2018). The short-term stress response – Mother nature’s mechanism for enhancing protection and performance under conditions of threat, challenge, and opportunity. Frontiers in neuroendocrinology, 49, 175–192. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yfrne.2018.03.004

Diao, H., Song, L. J., Wang, Y., & Zhong, J. (2019). Being Passionate to Perform: The Joint Effect of Leader Humility and Follower Humility. Frontiers in psychology, 10, 1059. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01059

Hsu, Y. Y., Bai, C. H., Yang, C. M., Huang, Y. C., Lin, T. T., & Lin, C. H. (2019). Long Hours’ Effects on Work-Life Balance and Satisfaction. BioMed research international, 2019, 5046934. https://doi.org/10.1155/2019/5046934

Luken, M., & Sammons, A. (2016). Systematic Review of Mindfulness Practice for Reducing Job Burnout. The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association, 70(2), 7002250020p1–7002250020p10. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2016.016956

McGonnigal, K. (2015). The upside of stress: Why stress is good for you (and how to get good at it). London, UK: Penguin Random House

Morris, H. M. (1997). Can Order Come Out of Chaos? Retrieved from https://www.icr.org/article/can-order-come-out-chaos

Salvagioni, D., Melanda, F. N., Mesas, A. E., González, A. D., Gabani, F. L., & Andrade, S. M. (2017). Physical, psychological and occupational consequences of job burnout: A systematic review of prospective studies. PloS one, 12(10), e0185781. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0185781

Superville, D. J., Pargament, K. I., & Lee, J. W. (2014). Sabbath keeping and its relationships to health and well-being: A mediational analysis. International Journal for the Psychology of Religion, 24(3), 241–256. https://doi-org.lopesalum.idm.oclc.org/10.1080/10508619.2013.837655

Yang, B., Wang Y., Cui, F., Huang, T., Sheng, P., Shi, T., Huang, C., Lan, Y., & Huang, Y. N. (2018). Association between insomnia and job stress: a meta-analysis. Sleep & Breathing 22(4), 1221-1231. doi: 10.1007/s11325-018-1682-y

Zoupanou, Z. E., & Rydstedt, L. W. (2017). Do Work Beliefs Moderate the Relationship Between Work Interruptions, Wellbeing and Psychosomatic Symptoms?. Europe’s journal of psychology, 13(2), 214–230. https://doi.org/10.5964/ejop.v13i2.1169

Overcome Stress with Science & Scriptures!

Faith, Health, and Evidence

Are the keys to resilience against stress found in the teachings of the scriptures? (Image credit: Josh Sorenson at Pexels)

If God is real, and if the scriptures are truly the word of God, shouldn’t the scriptures be filled with tips to help us navigate our sometimes stressful and challenging lives? If such tips are provided, would it be reasonable to believe that such tips would hold up under scientific scrutiny? This post explores the concept of stress, the science of building resilience against stress, and related scripture teachings. For a more thorough discussion of the science of resilience, I examine current research in my post “Resilience Against Stress: Genetics or Lifestyle?”

Stress in our modern era

Our ancestors crossed oceans in wooden vessels, fought in trenches, forests and fields, suffered persecution, famine, plagues, and natural and man made disasters throughout history. Obviously, stress is nothing new. In our modern era, the American Psychological Association (APA, 2019) notes reported stress sources among Americans to be related to health care and costs, fears of mass shootings, concerns about the climate, political future uncertainties, and economic future uncertainties.

In the workplace, personality, personal resources and job characteristics interact to determine the level of emotional exhaustion experienced by workers (Parent-Lamarche, & Marchand, 2018). Long hours, low levels of control over one’s work environment, lack of supervisor support, having neurotic personality traits (characterized by fear, anxiety, irritability, insecurity, impulsivity), introversion and lack of social connections are associated with increased emotional exhaustion (Parent-Lamarche, & Marchand, 2018). According to a Gallup study published in 2018, more than 1 in 5 workers report feeling burned out “very often” or “always” at work (Wigert, & Agrawal, 2018). Nearly half of the 7,500 full time employees surveyed reported feeling burnt out “sometimes” at work.

So stress and a sense of burnout are highly prevalent in our modern era. Many of our stressors are beyond our control. How many of us can control the economic and political future of our nation? A sense of job burnout is common among many workers. If we can’t escape the stresses of life, how can we build resilience against these stressors?

One in five full time workers feel “burnt out” most or all the time, while nearly half of workers feel burnt out at least sometimes (Image credit: energepic.com at Pexels)

Resilience: What is it?

Resilience is described by researchers as the ability to experience significant negative, stressful circumstances, yet maintaining a sense of well being, and preserving health and successful functioning in spite of these circumstances (Goodman, Disabato, Kashdan, & Machell, 2017). Early on, researchers believed resilience to be an inherited personality trait. These perspectives have shifted now as further studies have demonstrated individuals may demonstrate resilience at one time or circumstance, yet lack resilience at a different time or in different circumstances (Goodman et al., 2017).

Rather than an inheritable personality trait beyond our control, resilience is now viewed as the overcoming of a particular stress through a combination of personality traits, resources available to the person under stress, and the nature of the stress (Goodman et al., 2017). In other words, if a person reinforces various personality strengths and enhances their available resources, these in turn can help them overcome greater amounts of stress with less negative impact to their health and sense of well being.

Can we all become Navy Seals? Obviously not. Some aspects of resilience and mental “toughness” are attributable to inherited traits (Goodman et al., 2017). However, many aspects of resilience ARE within our control, allowing each of us the opportunity to foster greater resilience against stress in our lives.

A great book on the science of resilience can be purchased here.

Keys to resilience are found in the scriptures

Scientists are beginning to unlock the keys to human resilience. We can’t control our genetics (though research is indicating we can influence how our genes are activated, inactivated and expressed) (Alegría-Torres, Baccarelli, & Bollati, 2011). As adults, our formative childhood years are behind us. Depending on our career choice, exposure to high stress in the workplace may be unavoidable. Finally, life itself is filled with uncertainty. We are all bound to experience loss and health challenges with ourselves and loved ones at some point. We can’t change these realities. We can however use scriptural principles, backed by science, to build our resilience to stress.

NOTE: the following segment describe scriptures that provide tools for resilience, NOT immunity against mental illness. While many church groups readily embrace the reality of genetic illnesses, heart disease, cancer and other illnesses, they fail to recognize in practice that our brains and thoughts are also influenced by organic, genetic, biological and chemical processes. A great article on the need for church members and leaders to embrace concepts around mental health treatment and support can be found in the article “The church is uninformed when it comes to mental illness and why that’s insane” (Carter, 2020).

Resilience builder: Hope and optimism

Optimism is characterized by a belief that good things will occur in the future, a true hope for better things, with a belief that such is possible (Terte, Stephens, & Huddleston, 2014). Optimism is a trait that can be practiced, learned and is associated with resilience against stress as well as improved overall mental and physical health (Terte et al., 2014). In fact, a sense of hope was found to be the largest factor predicting resilience in an international study of nearly 800 adults analyzing factors of resilience and reactions to adverse life events (Goodman et al., 2017). For me, scriptures offer the best source of optimism.

Optimism and hope: powerful tools of resilience fostered by the scriptures (Image credit: Matheus Bertelli at Pexels)

All of us age (if we are fortunate enough to escape a premature death), all of us will encounter changes in our health and wellness. Wealth and success can’t change these unavoidable truths. Scriptures offer us a hope in this life and after death.

Scriptures that foster optimism and hope

Anyone familiar with the scriptures knows they do not promise us a life of ease and comfort. Instead, we are instructed that suffering is an expected part of life. However, the scriptures abound with hope and, ultimately, deliverance from sorrows.

“But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.” (1 Peter 5:10, KJV).

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31, KJV).

“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart,and saves such as have a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all. He guards all his bones; not one of them is broken. Evil shall slay the wicked, and those who hate the righteous shall be condemned. The Lord redeems the soul of his servants, and none of those who trust in Him shall be condemned.” (Psalms 34: 17-22, NKJV).

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began, but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel,” (1 Tim 1: 7-10, NKJV)

“Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippeans 3: 13-14)

Paul teaches “…forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead…” (Philippeans 3: 13-14) (Image Credit: Samuel Silitonga at Pexels)

The above are just a small sampling of a tremendous number of scriptures that offer hope and deliverance in the face of sorrow, and ultimately, in the face of death. True optimism does not deny the existence of sorrow, rather, it looks for a path through the sorrow and towards a future, better state here and beyond. Routine readings and meditation on such scriptures can embed them in our conscious and impact our thinking during difficult times. As Proverbs 23:7 (NKJV) states: “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he…” For more scriptures on hope, click here.

Resilience builder: A bias towards positivity

Researchers have noted people who demonstrate resilience are more likely to have a disposition for viewing life with a positive perspective (Li, Eschenauer, & Persaud, 2018). Similar to optimism, a bias or inclination towards positive perspectives can be fostered through intentional practice (Southwick & Charney, 2012). By CONSCIOUSLY choosing to focus on positive occurrences, even if small, as opposed to ruminating continually on negative thoughts, research shows a person can actually change a pessimistic bias to one of positivity (Southwick & Charney, 2012).

Scriptures that encourage a positive bias

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippeans 4: 6-8, NKJV)

“My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands; For length of days and long life and peace they will add to you. Let not mercy and truth forsake you; Bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart, and so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man.” (Proverbs 3: 1-4, NKJV)

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12: 2, NKJV)

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil” (1 Thess 5: 16-22, NKJV)

Mercy, truth, dwelling on things that are pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous and praiseworthy, transforming and renewing your mind…this advice was provided by Paul and other authors in the scriptures. Paul was no stranger to hardship–facing beatings, attempts on his life, imprisonment, defamation and ultimately, martyrdom. However, Paul provides tips on resilience that sustained him and as we now know, are supported by science conducted on resilience.

“Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4: 11-13, NKJV)

“…for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound.” (Phil 4: 11-12) (Image Credit: Pixabay at Pexels)

The above passage is essentially the very definition of resilience!!! For more verses on harnessing a positive mind frame, click here.

Resilience builder: Helping others, purpose and social support

Research has demonstrated that when people feel like they are making a contribution to society, they experience lower amounts of psychological distress (Ozaki, Motohashi, Kaneko, & Fujita, 2012). Warm, mutually supportive social relationships have repeatedly been linked to better function of the immune system, cardiac function, and reductions in various chronic or stress related illnesses (Lee & Dik, 2017; Post, 2005; Southwick& Charney, 2012). Research of similar groups of people matched for various demographic factors noted that those who volunteered spent less days in the hospital, experienced less physical symptoms of illness and had lower reports of depression and anxiety (Post, 2005). Biologic mechanisms that may explain the apparent improved health status for those cultivating supportive and positive relationships involve reductions in stress hormones and byproducts that otherwise increase the rate of biologic aging (Post, 2005).

Scriptures that encourage altruism, provide purpose and encourage social support

“So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work” (2 Cor 9: 7-9, NKJV).

Note: the scriptures here do not advocate forced giving, but giving according to as each person chooses and feels led to in their heart. Further, the scriptures instruct followers to give to those who truly need it. This is something many Christians seem to forget in my view–donating to wealthy mega-pastors and palace-like buildings as opposed to the poor.

“For the poor will never cease from the land; therefore I command you, saying, ‘You shall open your hand wide to your brother, to your poor and your needy, in your land” (Deut 15: 11, NKJV)

“Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need.” (Eph 4:28, NKJV)

The above passage is really interesting. Criminal behavior is to be replaced with purpose driven honest labor and effort…with the intent of producing so as to be able to then help others. Purposeguides.org (n.d.) explores this very concept, citing research finding that providing job skills to prisoners results in lower re-incarceration rates. Along with job skills, former prisoners cite a newfound sense of purpose as being major driver for them in achieving a new successful life after prison.

“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Gal 6: 2, NKJV)

“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Gal 6: 2, NKJV) (Image Credit: lalesh aldarwish at Pexels)

“Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Phil 2: 1-4, NKJV)

Living for short term fixes and selfish gains leaves behind a trail of emptiness, sorrow and brokenness. Working, producing, and providing for others in need on the other hand contributes to a sense of purpose. Here again, principles taught in the scriptures play out in science and life to the benefit of adherents to these principles. For more scriptures on helping others, click here.

Resilience builder: Quietness, contemplation, meditation

Mindfulness meditation, yogic meditation, relaxation exercises and other forms of quiet contemplation have been shown to produce changes in brain structures correlating to reductions in feelings of anxiety and psychological distress (Singleton, Hölzel, Vangel, Brach, Carmody, & Lazar, 2014; Snijders et al., 2018). Research showing positive impacts of meditation on mental and physical health is noted to lack consistency in terms of what method is used, but the results on mental and physical well being tend to be consistently promising (Snijders et al., 2018). In other words, it appears various forms of meditation produce mental and physical health benefits. Christians are often suspicious of meditation, concerned that such practices demonstrate embracing of non-Christian religions or philosophies.

Having practiced mindfulness meditation, in my view the practice is helpful in producing a state of relaxation and slowing down racing thoughts. As a philosophy, however, in my opinion it comes up empty in that it offers no real hope for the future. “Focus on the breath, return to the breath, you always have the breath…” This is true, until you don’t.

We all face our mortality at one point or another. Mindfulness offers little promise for when we face the other side of this life. Mindfulness proponents and practitioners frequently advocate for a spirit of loving kindness and compassion, but fall short on the “why” behind why we should do such. Further, with such a focus on strictly the present, a sense of purpose, a desire to make a difference, to look for a better, brighter future in this life or the next (optimism)–these aspects of resilience in my view are undermined.

Mindful meditation can be relaxing, but without the promises of the scriptures, the philosophy can feel empty and hollow (Image credit: Spencer Selover at Pexels)

As noted, I do find mindfulness meditation relaxing, just inadequate on its own. Christians, fortunately, do not have to ignore the benefits of quiet reflection, prayerful meditation, and appreciation of God’s creation and its beauty. In fact, meditation and reflection–when layered onto the belief of an accessible Creator, with the presence of hope, purposeful labor, and a belief in the final deliverance from the sorrows of life–can be quite soothing.

Scriptures that encourage quiet reflection, contemplation and meditation

“And Isaac went out to meditate in the field in the evening; and he lifted his eyes and looked, and there, the camels were coming. Then Rebekah lifted her eyes, and when she saw Isaac she dismounted from her camel; for she had said to the servant, “Who is this man walking in the field to meet us?” (Genesis 24: 63-65, NKJV)

“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (Joshua 1: 8; NKJV)

“Be angry, and do not sin. Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still.” (Psalms 4: 4, NKJV)

“I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works; I muse on the work of Your hands.” (Psalms 143: 5, NKJV)

Christ, during his time of distress prior to his crucifixion spent time in prayer in the natural settings of the Garden of Gethsemane as recounted in Matthew 26: 36-46. In Matthew 14: 22-23, he separates himself from the crowds to pray on a mountainside alone.

“He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul; he leads me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name” (Psalms 23: 2-3, NKJV).

“He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul;” (Psalms 23: 2-3, NKJV) (Image credit: James Wheeler at Pexels)

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4: 6-7, NKJV)

“On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer…” (Acts 16: 13, NKJV)

The above verses show believers and Christ himself contemplating God in natural settings of beauty. Prayer, silence, meditation, reflection, thankfulness, requests to God and the peace of God are discussed as a way of life for followers of Christ and the scriptures. Indeed, such reflections offer a more rich tapestry of contemplation than mindfulness meditation alone.

Resilience tool: Self care and moderation

A healthy diet that is heavily plant based has been found to reduce psychological distress and have protective effects against anxiety and depression, as explored in my post Anxiety, Depression, and Diet Connections — Current Evidence. Optimistic and resilient people have been noted to avoid excesses and destructive tools of coping, such as excessive alcohol intake and smoking (Terte et al., 2014). Fascinating research around neuropeptides show that a neuropeptide associated with lower levels of anxiety is suppressed in the presence of hormones released from white fat cells, while it raises during fasting states (Comeras, Herzog, & Tasan, 2019). Finally, physical exercise and fitness have been found to be protective against psychological distress and to improve a person’s sense of well being (Elkington, Cassar, Nelson, & Levinger, 2017).

Principles of moderation and self care can be found throughout the scriptures. Indeed, poor self care and poor coping mechanisms such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption promote inflammation. Inflammation, in turn can impact stress susceptibility and promote distressing symptoms of anxiety and depression (Lai, Hiles, Bisquera, Hure, McEvoy, & Attia, 2014; Snijders et al., 2018). Interestingly, here again, science backs the scriptural teachings of moderation which in turn, can support resilience.

Scriptures that encourage self care and moderation

“A righteous man who falters before the wicked is like a murky spring and a polluted well. It is not good to eat much honey; so to seek one’s own glory is not glory. Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls.” (Proverbs 25:26-28, NKJV) 

“And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.” (1 Cor 9:25, NKJV)

“For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.” (1 Timothy 4: 8, NKJV)

“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.” (Proverbs 20: 1; NKJV)

“And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things.” (1 Cor 9:25, NKJV) (Image Credit: Pixabay at Pexels)

“Do not mix with winebibbers, or with gluttonous eaters of meat; for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe a man with rags.” (Proverbs 23: 20-21, NKJV)

It should be noted that the scriptures warn against the abuse of wine, not against the consumption of wine, as noted by the fact that Christ drank wine as did his disciples, along with scriptures that speak positively of wine, such as the following: “He causes the grass to grow for the cattle, and vegetation for the service of man, that he may bring forth food from the earth, and wine that makes glad the heart of man, oil to make his face shine, and bread which strengthens man’s heart” (Psalms 104: 15, NKJV).

“Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” (1 Corinthians 6: 18-20, NKJV)

“For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught…” (Titus 1: 7-9, NKJV)

“My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh.” (Prov 4: 20-22, NKJV)

Summary

The scriptures are themselves resilient, having survived the passage of time and distance. Indeed, originating in early Mesopotamia thousands of years ago, the scriptures have survived numerous attempts by various nations, rulers and peoples to undermine or destroy them. Despite this, they are widely taught and read around the world.

Perhaps a reason for their timeless survival and ongoing appeal are the universal truths contained within these sayings. Truths that encourage a lifestyle and mindset that help people weather the storms of life. Hope, salvation, moderation, appreciation of the things that are good no matter how small, fellowship, quiet reflection, purpose, bringing ease and comfort to others through the labors of your own hands, and ultimately…deliverance–these are the timeless tools of resilience.

Thanks for reading!! I hope you enjoyed this post! Feel free to leave a comment below or sign up to receive email notifications when I post new articles! -Donovan

Related Posts

Resilience Against Stress: Genetics or Lifestyle?

Stress & Anxiety can be…Good?

References

Alegría-Torres, J. A., Baccarelli, A., & Bollati, V. (2011). Epigenetics and lifestyle. Epigenomics, 3(3), 267–277. doi:10.2217/epi.11.22

American Psychological Association. (2019). Stress in America 2019 [Pdf]. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2019/stress-america-2019.pdf

Carter, J. (2020). The church is uninformed when it comes to mental illness and why that’s insane. Retrieved from https://unchartedchapter.com/2020/01/05/the-church-is-uninformed-when-it-comes-to-mental-illness-and-why-thats-insane/

Comeras, L. B., Herzog, H., & Tasan, R. O. (2019). Neuropeptides at the crossroad of fear and hunger: a special focus on neuropeptide Y. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1455(1), 59–80. doi:10.1111/nyas.14179

Elkington, T. J., Cassar, S., Nelson, A. R., & Levinger, I. (2017). Psychological responses to acute aerobic, resistance, or combined exercise in healthy and overweight individuals: A systematic review. Clinical Medicine Insights. Cardiology, 11, 1179546817701725. doi:10.1177/1179546817701725

Goodman, F. R., Disabato, D. J., Kashdan, T. B., & Machell, K. A. (2017). Personality Strengths as Resilience: A One-Year Multiwave Study. Journal of Personality, 85(3), 423–434. https://doi-org.lopesalum.idm.oclc.org/10.1111/jopy.12250

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