Twelve Bible principles that help individuals cope with pain and suffering.
While the Bible may not explicitly mention "daily habits" many of its teachings can be applied as daily practices for mental and emotional well-being. Here are twelve practical daily habits inspired by biblical principles:
Start the Day with Prayer
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, 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 your minds in Christ Jesus.
Encourages us not to be anxious but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present our requests to God. We all face worries that can get us down, but by praying through our worries we get renewed perspective and we can see when God does marvelous things in us and for us.
Read and Meditate on Scripture
Psalm 1:1-2
Blessed is the man
who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners,
nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
Speaks of the blessed man whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on it day and night. Understanding of what the Bible says gives us wisdom to make good decisions and overcome the influences in our lives that discourage us.
Practice Gratitude
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Instructs us to give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. We may not be thankful for all the circumstances we are in, but we can always be thankful for God's love for us and for our hope in eternity. Think of at least 5 things each day that you can be thankful for.
Engage in Worshipful Music
Ephesians 5:19
Addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart.
Suggests speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord. From just focusing on our own issues we can contemplate the beauty of our God.
Let others help you
Hebrews 10:24-25
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
Emphasizes not giving up meeting together, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Others are able to encourage us and to help us detach from our suffering.
Serve Others
Galatians 5:13-14
For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
While we are free to enjoy ourselves this passage teaches us to serve one another humbly in love, fulfilling the law of Christ who came to serve rather than be served. Even the unwell can encourage and help others, be alert for opportunities
Renew your mind
Romans 12:2
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Redress negative and pessimistic thought patterns; don't let your circumstances define who you are.
Exercise and Care for Your Body
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
Reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and we should honor God with our bodies, including physical activity and healthy living.
One day at a time
Matthew 6:34
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Take one day at a time. Focus on today and make the most of it.
Seek close supportive fellowship
Proverbs 18:24
One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin,
but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Seek close supportive friendships, be honest and accountable with your friends
Know your purpose in Life
Micah 6:8
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.
Know why God has created you and what your purpose in life is.
You need never walk alone
Psalm 23:1-2
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
Experience the joy of appreciating God's creation and seek consciousness of His presence when you are in quiet beautiful places. You must approach God with reverence, for more understanding go to Become a Christian.
Implementing these practices can create a rhythm of life that not only aligns with biblical teachings but also supports mental and emotional health. To experience the full abundant life and peace that Jesus promises you need to be in a personal relationship with Him. Go to Become a Christian to find out more.
