Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI)

Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) is a field of research which has shown a link between the brain and the immune system. Research seems to indicate that:

1. contact with others contributes to health and longevity
2. sharing your feelings may also have positive benefits
3. optimism is a strong health factor
4. loving relationships may help to keep us well

Of course not everyone is a believer. Many scientists remain skeptical. But, to the student of the Bible, none of this is very surprising.

Solomon wrote: “A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken” (Proverbs 15:13). “All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast” (Proverbs 15:15). “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones” (Proverbs 17:22).

How we think does have a bearing on how we feel.

We may not completely understand the relationship between attitude and good health, but it does exist. It was also Solomon who advised: “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life” (Proverbs 4:23).

In the New Testament, Paul wrote: “Finally, brethren, whatso­ever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” (Philippians 4:8).

How we think determines how we feel and how we act.

We would all be better off if we began each day as the Psalmist advised. He wrote: “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24).

— Roger