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The Science of Happiness

The Science of Happiness

The Bible says:

The laws of the LORD are right, and those who obey them are happy (Psalm 19:8 GNT).

Happy are those whose lives are faultless, who live according to the law of the LORD (Psalm 119:1 GNT).

God’s laws are the protocols upon which our Creator built life and health to operate, including the laws of physics, the laws of health, and the moral laws. The Bible is telling us that happiness is possible only when we live in harmony with how our Creator built life to function, in harmony with the laws of health.

Happiness is the byproduct of healthiness in all domains—physical, mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual. When we are physically ill, we are not happy; mental or emotional illness—not happy; relationship conflict—not happy; spiritual sickness (guilt, shame, condemnation)—not happy.

Viktor Frankl—Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist, and Holocaust survivor—wrote:

Don’t aim at success—the more you aim at it and make it a target, the more you are going to miss it. For success, like happiness, cannot be pursued; it must ensue, and it only does so as the unintended side-effect of one’s personal dedication to a cause greater than oneself or as the by-product of one’s surrender to a person other than oneself. Happiness must happen, and the same holds for success: you have to let it happen by not caring about it. I want you to listen to what your conscience commands you to do and go on to carry it out to the best of your knowledge. Then you will live to see that in the long run—in the long run, I say—success will follow you precisely because you had forgotten to think of it (Man’s Search for Meaning, pp. 16, 17, my emphasis).

Many people are unhappy because they are unhealthy physically, psychologically, relationally, or spiritually, and sadly, they will substitute pleasure-seeking for happiness in an attempt to “feel” better, but almost all such pleasure-seeking violates the laws of health in some way (comfort eating, alcohol, drugs, shopping, gambling, porn, comfort in fleeting liaisons, etc.) and, thus, they only get worse.

Again, happiness is the byproduct of healthiness in all domains, and healthiness is experienced only when we are in harmony with God’s design laws for life—the protocols upon which the Creator God has built reality to operate. When we break the laws of health, the resulting sickness, disease, and suffering that occur undermines our happiness. This is why the Bible repeatedly tells us, “Happy are those who keep God’s law!” (Proverbs 29:18 GNT).

While we cannot choose to “be happy” or seek to directly obtain happiness, we can choose to be healthy, choosing to live in harmony with all aspects of God’s design laws for life. We can choose to surrender our hearts to Jesus and be reborn with new motives of love—love for God, for truth, and for others. We can choose to pursue a life of truth lived with motives to bless and love—because the truth is always the healthy choice. As we choose healthiness, the byproduct is ever-increasing happiness. And science documents the positive outcomes and connection between God’s design laws and our health and happiness.

  • In a six-week study, researchers randomized participants into a control group and two active groups. One active group was to “count your blessings” once a week on Sundays, while the other active group was to “count your blessings” three times per week—on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. This was done by making lists of things they were thankful for. The researchers found that:
    • Those who counted their blessings once a week had improvement in gratitude and happiness, while both the controls and those who counted their blessings three times per week had reductions in both gratitude and happiness.
    • Once a week counting of blessings caused actual thankfulness and appreciation, while doing so three times a week caused a desensitization in which the list-making became rote, a chore, proforma, routine, and perhaps even a burden, thereby reducing happiness (Lyubomirsky, S et al, “Pursuing happiness, the architecture of sustainable change.” Review of General Psychology. 2005;9(2)111–131).
  • In a four-week study, researchers separated participants into a control group and two active intervention groups. One active group was to do acts of kindness for others, while the other active group was to do acts of kindness for self. At the end of the study, and also at a later follow-up point, researchers found:
    • Those who did acts of kindness for others were happier than the control group, but those who did acts of kindness for self were no different from the control group (Nelson, SK et al., Emotions. 2016;16(6):850–861).
    • Acts of kindness for others activate brain pathways that calm the body’s stress cascade and result in better physical and mental health. Acts of kindness for self does not have this same benefit.
  • In another four-week study, researchers wanted to see if acts of kindness did more than just bring an emotional state of happiness. Are there physical benefits to acts of kindness? The researchers separated participants into four groups—controls, those who were to do acts of kindness for others, those who were to do acts of kindness for the world (like picking up trash along the road), and those who did acts of kindness for self. They then examined gene expression in white blood cells to measure whether there were differences in immunity. The researchers found that:
    • Compared to controls, those who performed acts of kindness for others had reduced inflammation and improved viral fighting ability. In other words, gene expression changed, epigenetically, to improve health as a result of these acts.
    • But those who did acts of kindness toward the world or for self did not differ from controls (Nelson-Coffey, SK, et al., Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2017;81:8–13).
  • Researchers have also found that in some situations, acts of kindness or happiness interventions could backfire and make a person less happy. Such as:
    • When the motivation for doing them is self-focused, such as doing acts of kindness so others will like you more or you will get advancement or praise, etc.—which is an act of selfishness instead of love and, thus, in violation of God’s design law—not surprisingly, they don’t result in improved spiritual or emotional health and, thus, no improvement in happiness. To gain the benefit the action must originate from a heart motive that intends to benefit another, i.e., from love; it is not the act itself!
    • When they become a burden, rote, work, rather than actual love.
    • When they contradict one’s heart, beliefs, or current mindset:
      • Such as a person who is in clinical depression making a thankfulness list; this can actually cause the person to feel guilt or feel like a burden to others as they think about how much others have done for them.
      • Cultural contradictions—in some Eastern cultures, the act of giving thanks to one’s parents for a good job in raising their children is viewed as an insult, i.e., as if they wouldn’t have fulfilled their duty to their family.
      • Actions that go against a person’s baseline personality, such as an introverted person being directed to give thanks in front of a group.

Happiness is possible only in harmony with God’s design laws for life, and research has thus far demonstrated that the greatest action one can take that consistently brings increased happiness is living altruistically, loving others and engaging in acts of kindness for others.

 

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Testimony 60

Just watched watched lesson 10 in the 1st quarter 2021 bible study classs on Isaiah. I want to thank you for your intellectual spirituality; it’s not an oxymoron! From the point of view of a teacher I also enjoy seeing how much personal pleasure you clearly take in not just tasting, but feasting on God’s word – it reminds me of Jeremiah not being able to hold it in! It makes me smile that your cup is so full and overflowing that you make it to Tuesday’s lesson (on a good day). It just goes to show the richness of God’s Word.

God bless the Come and Reason Team from our church here in Great Britain.

Andrew H., Great Britain

 

Testimony 61

I grew up in a prominent protestant church and had what I like to call religious anxiety. I’ve always had questions about God and Salvation that no one could seem to answer.  I didn’t know how to find resolution. During 2020, at the height of my anxiety, I fell to my knees and begged God to show me truth and light and to give me the hope that I’ve been longing for. Days later, I stumbled upon your online videos and it was like a veil was lifted and EVERYTHING made sense! For the first time in my almost 39 years of life, my religious/spiritual anxiety has lessened. I feel a sense of freedom and peace I’ve NEVER had before… and it’s all because my view of God has changed. Thank you!

Ashleighn C.

 

Testimony 11

I would love to have a copy of “Healing the Mind” DVDs to have in my therapy office. I enjoy having clients check out materials to enhance their therapy experience. I have sat under Dr. Jennings’ teaching at an American Association of Christian Counselors convention and respect his work greatly.

K.B., LA, USA

 

Testimony 38

Since November 2015, when I started studying Gods word from this God Is Love point of view, my life has been transformed. My troubled marriage of 15 years has been healed and my husband and I are truly happy for the first time in 15 years. Now When I read the word of God I understand it so much better and I can’t help but see Gods love radiating through the pages to humanity. Gods word is living and active and I am blessed beyond measure to be having this amazing experience. God has given me a beautiful understanding of Jn 3:16 that amazes me more and more each day. Thank you again for your ministry.

Helen D., London, England

 

Testimony 65

I have been tuning into your weekly study classes for a while now and wanted express my appreciation for the teachings that ha been a huge blessing in opening up the true message of the word. Viewing scripture under an imposed law theory always, without fail, raised more questions, concerns, and conflicting scripture interpretations that were discouraging at the very least. Looking at scripture through the design law lens has brought more truth to light for me personally and an understanding of our Heavenly Father that places Him “above all others,” where I am now more than thrilled to witness and serve Him.  I “stumbled” across this ministry a year or so ago and would only watch a few minutes at a time. But the more I listened and the longer I paid attention, the more my spiritual eyes were opened to the ever present truths of scripture. The comprehension of the great controversy and it’s origin by the lies perpetrated and perpetuated throughout the Bible on the attack of God’s character and government is truly priceless. Keep up the Good Work! Your servanthood is desperately needed in such a time as this!

Jeff D., Reading, MA, USA

 

Testimony 7

Ok, so last night I listened to “The Law of Liberty” and “How to Achieve Victory: Freedom, Truth and Spirtual Warfare.” These are both MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITES so far! The logic is just soooooo beautiful. I had to re-listen to them a couple of times. I just want to EXPLODE! (<< we assume with joy and happiness)

N. B., Canada

 

Testimony 28

I have been following your Bible study class for about a year now. I must say I am impressed with how your ministry has grown. I took it upon myself to listen to all your lesson podcasts from the past and they have both enriched me physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. I have learnt a lot from this class. I have also noticed how the class has grown in spiritual strength. One of the things that benefited me is that now I am not afraid of God. I use to be, but now it has melted away. The second thing is that you helped me to have a real life relationship with God. Now He is my friend that was always there and I love having him with me all the time. Thirdly, because of this class, it inspired me to take over and lead a class. I have called it “Let Us Reason Together,” adapting your inquisitive style and creating a class of free thinkers.

T. Banda, Malawi, Africa

 

Testimony 52

Your unique way in spreading the truth is what we all need today. Most of us don’t recognize the contamination coming from all the lies and selfishness in the world. Because of our fear of death, we forgot how to live. Lies left and right. I was losing hope and faith, because of so many ideas that are always contradicting each other – so many questions answered by other, more complicated, questions – until I found your channel on YouTube.

You did not just give me answers, you also taught me how to answer new questions that arise in my mind. Now I see things differently. I see God’s mercy, grace, and Love everywhere, in spite of all the chaos that we all have done as humans. I don’t fear death anymore. Accepting the Truth and Love about God is truly a genuine Freedom from all the confusions, sufferings, selfishness, pain, and death.

I just wanted to say, thank you, sooooo much for revealing the real Remedy for our infected life. I have a new hope and now see the world in a different perspective!

Wheinny P., University Place, WA, USA

 

Testimony 72

I am blown away by the truth that you present. God’s Design Law makes so much sense! You have validated my impression that, if God is love, He would not kill those who don’t want to know him. If God gives us choice, then how can He destroy us if our choice is not to follow him. Thank you for opening my eyes and heart to the pure love of God seen through Jesus. The love I now have for Jesus is deeper and free from condemnation. My heart has been opened to love others as Jesus loves me. May God continue to bless your God-given insight into His word and your ministry. The truth has set me free!

H. Miller, Centereach, NY

Testimony 48

I just want to tell you how blessed I have been reading “The Remedy!” It has become a daily part of my devotional relationship with God. In it I have found a God of love and a God that loves me! The bible has come alive for me! It is the first time that I can say that I have felt hope fill my heart as I have read God’s word. This is good news I can share! Thank you, Dr Jennings! Thank you for your heart for others. I can’t put into words how this has set me free! It has strengthened my trust and love for God.

Jason H.

 

Testimony 19

I truly believe that to know who God really is the first step to understand ourselves in a balanced and kind way, so the healing can take place. Your approach really makes sense – Thank you for your ministry!

A.M., Pittsburg, PA, USA

Testimony 58

I have been watching your videos in The Power of Love seminar and I must say these have liberated me and have improved my relationship with the Lord. I am no longer terrified of him as I was before following your teachings.

Thando N., South Africa

 

Testimony 23

I would just like to add my voice to the many people who, I believe, must have contacted you to express their appreciation for the “Healing the Mind” DVDs. I’ve been listening to your Bible study class discussions for many years and I’ve been personally blessed by your research and teaching about the character of God.

L. G., Oakland, MI, USA

 

Testimony 62

I would like to express my thanks to the C&R team for creating a platform from which people can learn to trust in God and grow. My life is a witness to the effectiveness of this ministry. Without believing the truth about God as you have shown, I don’t know what my life would be like. I had given up on God helping me with certain sins – it was all useless. Given that the scripture is clear and God is so good, how could I have betrayed him so many times? I was a yo-yo christian; spinning up and down. My faith and enthusiasm was driven by discoveries/threats that prophecy is about to be fulfilled. But when I watched your “Healing the Mind” seminar, it was like a light finally went on. I could see God had no plan to hurt me, the danger came from sin, and that He is working to protect me and strengthen me. Thank you for allowing God to use you. The message God gave C&R saved my life!

Antony N. – Hobart, Australia

 

Testimony 35

I am so pleased with the response your message is receiving at my church from the middle-aged to the young adults. I have given out 100 copies of the first two seminars and there are more request every week. One of my [class members] came to me after viewing the series, grateful and impressed with how easy the message was retained. He had been a Seventh-day Adventist in fear all his life, and felt like the scales were removed from his eyes after viewing the seminars. I am so impressed by the change I see in members who have received this message, we are in one accord. However, I am sadden by the negative response of the older people. I am verbally attacked anytime I talk about imposed laws, but I believe my mission is to enlightened everyone I can. I watch your Bible Study Class on YouTube every Friday night and I feel like I am apart of the class. All of you are in one accord and I am so blessed to have found you. I pray that all of you continue to spread this message and I am committed to doing my part.

Clara S., Westfield, MA, USA