Daily Devotional
A Merry Heart Is Medicine
May 15, 2018
After World War II, there were a lot of orphans in Germany. A group of behavioral scientists decided to study some of these little ones, so they took 100 children and put 50 in one group and 50 in another group.
One group of children was given everything that they needed: food, bedding, clothing, as well as lots of loving attention and affection. The other 50 children had their physical needs met, but they received no loving attention or affection. Now, we may question whether or not these scientists had any right to do this, but the experiment took place.
After a year, both groups were tested. Those children who received loving attention and affection were an average of two inches taller and several pounds heavier. The other group had more diseases and sickness.
Proverbs 17:22 says, "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones." Did you know that laughter is like medicine? A research project in New York has shown the positive effect laughter can have on a person's attitude, coping skills, relationships, and creativity. Humor can enhance motivation and morale. Laughter is a gift of God. God made us that way.
You know, we're building for our children and our children's children a museum of memories. I want the memories my children and grandchildren have to be memories of a happy home, a home that rings with laughter.
FOR YOUR GIFT TO THE MINISTRY
Front Porch Moments by Gayle Foster
WITH KEY INSIGHTS FROM HER FATHER, ADRIAN ROGERS
I try to unplug each morning with Jesus with just my rocking chair, my Bible, and a pen.
Having a secret place is very important because I know that Jesus is always there waiting for me. I know where I can find Him! His presence is everywhere, but there are places where it is so thick you can cut it with a knife. You may not even have a front porch, but there is a secret place for you as well. God’s invitations are for anyone who will respond. There is no more important request than the one found in Psalm 27:8: “My heart has heard You say, ‘Come and talk with Me.’ And my heart responds, ‘Lord, I am coming.’”
