Growing old ∙∙

Growing old ∙∙

Seventy years are given to us! Some even live to be eighty. But even the best years are filled with pain and trouble; soon, they disappear, and we fly away. – Psalms 90:10

Ecclesiastes 12:1-14

1 Don’t let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator. Honor him in your youth before you grow old and say, “Life is not pleasant anymore.”

2 Remember him before the light of the sun, moon, and stars is dim to your old eyes and rain clouds continually darken your sky.
3 Remember him before your legs, the guards of your house, start to tremble, and before your shoulders, the strong men, stoop. Remember him before your teeth, your few remaining servants, stop grinding, and before your eyes, the women looking through the windows, see dimly.
4 Remember him before the door to life’s opportunities is closed and the sound of work fades. Now, you rise at the first chirping of the birds, but then all their sounds will grow faint.
5 Remember him before you become fearful of falling and worry about danger in the streets before your hair turns white like an almond tree in bloom. You drag along without energy like a dying grasshopper, and the caperberry no longer inspires sexual desire. Remember him before you near the grave, your everlasting home, when the mourners will weep at your funeral.

6 Yes, remember your Creator now while you are young, before the silver cord of life snaps and the golden bowl is broken. Don’t wait until the water jar is smashed at the spring and the pulley is broken at the well.
7 For then the dust will return to the earth, and the spirit will return to God who gave it.

13 That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty.
14 God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad.

Increasing Life Expectancy and Its Challenges

Over the years, life expectancy in the United States has steadily risen, barring extraordinary events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Consider these rounded average figures that highlight this upward trend:

The average current life expectancy for the U.S. in 2020 is 79 years
The average life expectancy for the U.S. in 1970 was 70 years
The average life expectancy for the U.S. in 1950 was 68 years
The average life expectancy for the U.S. in 1890 was 49 years
The average life expectancy for the U.S. in 1860 was 40 years

While this progress brings many benefits, it also introduces unexpected challenges as people live longer.

Outliving Our Bodies

With increasing life expectancy comes an unfortunate reality. Many parts of our bodies, such as our joints, eyes, and ears, often wear out before our lives naturally come to a close. Modern medicine has helped address these issues, leading to a surge in procedures such as knee replacements, hip replacements, cataract surgeries, and similar operations designed to restore function and improve quality of life.

This phenomenon reveals the ironic truth of aging. While advances in healthcare have extended life, they have also highlighted the natural breakdown of our physical bodies. Pierre Teilhard de Chardin poignantly remarked, “Growing old is like being increasingly penalized for a crime you haven’t committed.”

Why Has Life Expectancy Increased?

One of the primary factors contributing to the substantial increase in life expectancy over the past two centuries is the dramatic decline in infant and child mortality rates. Improved medical technologies, sanitation, and living conditions have given countless individuals the opportunity to lead full lives that would have been unimaginable in previous centuries.

Understanding Aging through a Biblical Perspective

The challenges of aging are not a modern concept. Ecclesiastes 12:1-8 presents one of the most vivid and poetic portrayals of old age and death found in literature. The passage employs the metaphor of a house slowly deteriorating into disrepair, ultimately returning to dust. This image aligns with biblical perspectives on the frailty of the human body, often referred to as a “dwelling place.” The gradual “taking down” of this house or tent serves as a poignant reminder of the inevitability of death (Wiersbe).

To illustrate, imagine building a custom home tailored to your exact specifications. On the day it is completed, it stands as a pristine realization of your design. Now, picture that same house after 50 years. The passage of time has taken its toll; repairs must be made, components must be replaced, and updates must be performed. By the 80th year, much of the original structure may have deteriorated, requiring significant restoration. Our bodies follow a similar trajectory as we age, bearing the marks of wear and time.

A Moment of Introspection

While longer lives bring opportunities for deeper relationships, wisdom, and fulfillment, they also highlight the fragility of our earthly frames. Aging reminds us of the impermanence of life and prompts us to reflect on its meaning and purpose. Just as we care for the homes we live in, we must also cherish, nurture, and prepare our bodies for the seasons to come. Life’s increasing longevity is both a blessing and a call to deepen our awareness of the fleeting beauty of our lives on planet Earth.

REFLECT & PRAY

If you must “sow your wild oats,” pray for a crop failure. In doing so, we hope that our reckless actions don’t bear fruit.

Father, as the years pass and I grow older, grant me the strength to stand unwavering on Your Truth, drawing closer to You with every step I take. May I find joy in sharing this deep connection with others, leading them to know You more.

INSIGHT

Embracing Life at Every Stage

Ecclesiastes reminds all the children of the King, regardless of age, to cherish life and live it fully. Whether we are young, old, or anywhere in between, there is wisdom in appreciating the days given to us. Life without knowing the Father is empty and leads to despair, but as children of the King, we are invited to experience profound joy and confidence through Him.

A Call to Rejoice

Ecclesiastes 11:7-10 paints a picture of gratitude and awareness for all ages: “Light is sweet; how pleasant to see a new day dawning! When people live to be very old, let them rejoice in every day of life. But let them also remember there will be many dark days. Everything still to come is meaningless.”
“Young people, it’s wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it. Do everything you want to do within moral boundaries; take it all in. But remember that you must give an account to God for everything you do. So refuse to worry and keep your body healthy. But remember that youth, with a whole life before you, is meaningless.”

This passage implores us to savor the sweetness of life, regardless of its season, while remaining anchored in the knowledge that all of it flows from and is accountable to God.

A Choice in Aging

Growing older comes with its challenges, but how we respond is up to us. Some spend their later years in fear, yearning to hold onto fleeting youth. This fear, known as gerascophobia, often drives people to seek extreme measures. For example, by 2018, over 18 million cosmetic procedures were performed in the U.S., few of which were medically necessary. These attempts to chase the mythical fountain of youth reveal a deep societal struggle to accept the reality of aging.

But as children of the King, we can take a different approach. Aging can be a time of grace, wisdom, and service. Regardless of our physical limitations, we can choose to remain young at heart and strong in spirit. Many older children of the King display a gentle sweetness and kindness that radiate the light of Christ. Against the backdrop of a dark and challenging world, they shine brilliantly, showing God’s love through their lives.

It is an opportunity to serve the Father continually, regardless of age. Though we can never reclaim the energy of our 20s, we can devote the time we have left to fulfill His purposes, bringing meaning and joy to every season of life.

God’s Promise to the Aging

Scripture assures us of God’s care throughout our lifetimes.

Isaiah 46:3-4 reminds us of God’s faithfulness from birth to old age: “Listen to me, descendants of Jacob, all you who remain in Israel. I have cared for you since you were born. Yes, I carried you before you were born. I will be your God throughout your lifetime, until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you.”

In Psalms 71:18, we find the heartfelt plea of an aging servant of God: “Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God. Let me proclaim your power to this new generation, Your mighty miracles to all who come after me.”

These passages illustrate that even in later years, God’s presence remains constant. He invites us to use our experiences, abilities, and wisdom to glorify Him and share His goodness with others.

Building a Life that Lasts

The best way to enjoy a fulfilling adulthood and a peaceful old age is to lay a solid foundation early in life. Establish habits of health, holiness, and wisdom that will sustain you in the years to come. Avoid the decisions and paths that bring unnecessary trouble, and remain rooted in God’s truth.

Psalms 118:24 offers a daily reminder of the joy found in the present: “This is the day that the LORD has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

A Life of Purpose

Aging is inevitable, but despair is not. By leaning into God’s promises, we can experience a life rich in purpose and contentment, regardless of the passing years. Tomorrow is always the first day of the rest of our lives. Intentionally choose to live in service to your King, knowing that as His child, your life is meaningful and eternally significant.

¯_(ツ)_/¯3-16-2

© Dr. H 2025

Hanging out ∙∙

Hanging out ∙∙

After these things, Jesus and His disciples came into the land of Judea, and there He was spending time with them and baptizing. – John 3:22

1 John 1:1-3

1 This is what we proclaim to you: what was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and our hands have touched. He is the Word of life.
2 This one who is life itself was revealed to us, and we have seen him. And now we testify and proclaim to you that he is the one who is eternal life. He was with the Father, and then he was revealed to us.
3 What we have seen and heard we announce to you too, so that you may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.

The Power of Being Present

What does it mean to “hang out?” In the 21st century, “hanging out” often occurs through the screens of our mobile devices. We text, video call, chat, and sometimes even send emails (though emails now feel outdated). But in the past, hanging out had a different meaning. It meant physically spending time with people—family, friends, or colleagues. Relationships were built by doing life together. Bonds deepened and grew stronger through face-to-face time.

The Lord Jesus Christ beautifully demonstrates this approach during His time on earth. He spent intentional time with His disciples, giving them the opportunity to know Him deeply and develop trust in Him. It wasn’t rushed or perfunctory; it was deliberate and relational.

A Lesson from Jesus’s Time

John 3:22 provides a glimpse of Jesus’ approach to spending time with his disciples, stating, “After this, Jesus and his disciples went out into the Judean countryside, where he spent some time with them.” The Greek word for “spending time” here is diatribo. It literally means “to rub continually,” “to wear away,” or “to wear smooth by rubbing.”

Think of how jeans are worn down over time. Some people even cut or tear their jeans to achieve a worn look. Interestingly, the English word “diatribe” comes from this same Greek root. While today it refers to bitter and abusive speech that can wear someone down, in the New Testament, diatribo paints a much more beautiful picture. It speaks of “closely passing time together, rubbing shoulders, or simply hanging out, or perhaps even burning daylight.”

When we spend time with the Lord Jesus Christ, we rub shoulders with Him. When we come into close proximity with Him, we are the ones who are changed. We become smooth as His presence wears down our rough edges. His love and truth refine and transform us.

This process is evident in the lives of Peter and John. Acts 4:13 states, “When they saw the boldness of Peter and John and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.”

Spending time with Jesus had reshaped them. His presence gave them boldness, wisdom, and a clear identity.

Being Transformed in His Presence

The invitation to spend time with the Lord Jesus Christ is extended to all children of the King. He doesn’t demand perfection or qualifications. Instead, He simply beckons us to come to Him. Matthew 11:28-29 records His open invitation, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

It is in spending time with Jesus that we begin to change. Just as His disciples were transformed, so too will we experience His refining work in our lives. Whether through prayer, reading His Word, or quiet reflection, His presence works to smooth out the rough areas of our hearts and minds.

REFLECT & PRAY

We are invited to come and spend time with the Lord Jesus Christ. The choice to come is ours to make. Imagine the warmth of His loving arms enveloping you as you step into His presence.

Father, I long to feel the comfort and closeness of Your loving presence. Too often, I feel distant or blocked by barriers of my own making. Please remove those barriers and draw me closer to You.

INSIGHT

Of all the Apostles, Who was Closest to Jesus?

John 13:23 recounts a moment that reflects the intimacy between Jesus and the one with whom He was closest: “One of his disciples, the one Jesus loved, was reclining at the table on Jesus’ bosom in a place of honor.” [John is the disciple whom “Jesus loved. ” This is explained at the end of this reflection.**]

This bond was extraordinary. John’s closeness with Jesus allowed him to physically rest his head on His chest. Pause for a moment; what would it be like to experience the rhythm of His breath and the beating of His heart? Can you imagine the depth of comfort and trust that moment brought? It was a privilege that speaks volumes about Jesus’s love for John and their intimate fellowship.

Now, close your eyes and picture this scene. See John leaning in, feeling the warmth and presence of the Savior. It’s beyond words, isn’t it? Awe-inspiring doesn’t even come close.

The Bosom of the Father

Interestingly, in John’s gospel, the word “bosom” or “reclining” appears once more, in John 1:18. This time, the reference isn’t to John but to the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. It says, “No one has seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.”

This moment highlights the incomparable intimacy shared between the Father and the Son. Their tender close affection is unparalleled, a perfect union of love and trust. Reflecting on this truth, we can see how John was privileged to experience a shadow of that same intimacy with the Lord Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry.

A Memory That Lingers

For John, those moments spent with Jesus were priceless. The closeness, the shared conversations, and the love they exchanged left an indelible mark on his heart. Imagine the emotions John would feel as he looked back, recalling those cherished moments. As the memories flood back into his consciousness, can you see the tears of joy and belonging welling up in John’s eyes?

You can sense John’s excitement and awe bursting forth in the opening words of his first letter. His joy is almost palpable, contagious in its enthusiasm. He can barely keep it to himself as he writes to fellow believers, exclaiming how he not only saw the Lord but also touched Him.

He states this in 1 John 1:1-3 with great fervor and enthusiasm: “This is what we proclaim to you, what was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and our hands have touched concerning the word of life.” The life was revealed, and we have seen it, and we testify to it and announce to you the eternal life that was with the Father and revealed to us. What we have seen and heard we announce to you too, so that you may have fellowship with us. Truly, our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ.”

John proclaims his privilege of seeing, hearing, and touching the Word of Life. He didn’t hear of Jesus secondhand or see Him from afar. He experienced the living God up close and personal. He touched the Messiah, the King of Kings, with his hands.

The Power of Touch

The Greek word translated as touch in 1 John 1:1 is pselaphao, which means “to grope for” or “to feel with one’s hands.” Its original meaning carried “an element of searching, often with uncertainty.” It’s the same word used when describing people “searching aimlessly for God” (as in Acts 17:27).

But John turns this idea on its head. While the world gropes blindly for God, John emphasizes that he wasn’t searching in vain. John uses the same verb in just the opposite sense. He was not vainly groping without effect. Instead, John touched the living God, the Lord Jesus Christ. His proclamation is not built solely on seeing or hearing but on intimately interacting with Christ.

As Kruse points out, this particular usage conveys more than a casual interaction. It speaks to a deliberate and direct physical contact, underscoring that John’s testimony stems from firsthand experience. John had personally laid hands on the word of life.

Faith Our spiritual connection

While John had the privilege of seeing and touching Jesus physically, all children of the King are called to seek Him through the eyes of faith. For some, that spiritual connection is so vivid that it feels just as real as physical touch.

Hebrews 11:27 reminds us, “By faith… we see Him who is unseen.”

Reflecting on Intimacy with Christ

John’s relationship with Jesus invites us to pursue closeness with the Savior. Just as John leaned in and rested on Jesus, we are encouraged to draw near to Him. He invites us into His presence.

May we, like John, be captivated by the wonder of walking with the Savior, always longing to know Him more deeply and to draw as close as we can. And may our lives reflect the joy and transformation that come from spending time with the One who invites us into intimate fellowship with Him.

[**The disciple described as “the one Jesus loved” was John, the writer of the fourth Gospel. He refers to himself as “the one whom Jesus loved” to maintain anonymity and avoid drawing attention to himself. However, his identity is revealed by Peter in John 21:20-24: Peter turned around and saw behind them the disciple Jesus loved—the one who had leaned over to Jesus during supper and asked, “Lord, who will betray you?” Peter asked Jesus, “What about him, Lord?” This disciple is the one who testifies to these events and has recorded them here. And we know that his account of these things is accurate.]

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© Dr. H 2025

There’s no place like home ∙∙

There’s no place like home ∙∙

We are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. We eagerly await his return as our Savior. – Philippians 3:20

Acts 7:6 God also told Abraham that his descendants would live as aliens in a foreign land, where they would be oppressed as slaves for 400 years.

1 Peter 2:11 Dear friends, I warn you as aliens and foreigners to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls.

Hebrews 11:13 All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it.

The Danger of Driving Close to Home

Did you know the most dangerous place to drive is near your own home? According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, 52% of all accidents occur within a five-mile radius of a person’s residence, and 69% happen within a ten-mile radius. Surprisingly, only 1% of vehicular accidents take place more than 50 miles from home.

Based upon these statistics would you consider relocating? Absolutely not. These statistics highlight a pattern but don’t establish a cause-and-effect relationship. Correlation does not demonstrate causality. However, this idea of proximity raises a profound spiritual question: Where is our true home?

Citizens of Two Kingdoms

Since 1967, Americans have been allowed to hold dual citizenship, that is, carrying passports for two nations. This unique status mirrors our spiritual reality. As children of the King, where is our home? We are citizens of earthly nations, yet, at the same time, we are citizens of heaven.

Philippians 3:20 declares this truth vividly: “We are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we eagerly await his return as our Savior.”

Our earthly lives, which most often span less than 100 years, pale in comparison to eternity. They’re like a single drop compared to the endless oceans. Heaven is our true and final home. The Bible reminds us we are exiles here. We may carry earthly passports or work permits, but we really do not belong here. Ultimately, we belong to the kingdom of God.

Getting our arms around this can be a life-changing perspective transformation. There’s no place like home. This realization transforms not just how we live but also how we see the world. However, being children of the King comes with challenges.

Hostility From The World

While heaven is our true home, the world can be pretty hostile to the children of the King. One way or another, we are all too often told, “Your kind is not welcome here.” In our lifetime, this animosity has escalated to outright hostility, even hatred. And what is the reason for this hatred? Is it merely because we cherish the name of Lord Jesus Christ? Regrettably, the answer is yes! But this is really nothing new.

Jesus warned us of this conflict in John 15: “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.” (John 15:18-19)

This rejection can feel painful, but it shouldn’t come as a surprise. As 1 John 3:13 echoes this sentiment: “Don’t be surprised, dear brothers and sisters, if the world hates you.”

For centuries, Christians around the world have faced persecution, and this hostility is growing in prominence. Though it feels foreign to many, especially in countries like the United States, the rising disdain toward those who align themselves with God is a reminder that we are not of the world.

Persecution is Prophecied

The Bible foretells that animosity toward believers will worsen in the last days. Revelation 12:17 paints a dramatic picture: “The dragon was angry at the woman and declared war against the rest of her children—all who keep God’s commandments and maintain their testimony for Jesus.”

Who are the key players in this prophecy? The Dragon symbolizes the ultimate enemy of our souls, Satan. The Woman represents Israel, the nation through which Jesus Christ entered the world.

Throughout history, the enemy has sought to destroy the Jewish people, and he has similarly aimed to thwart the work of Christ. At the cross, Satan believed he had succeeded, but the resurrection proved otherwise. So, who is left for the enemy to direct his anger and hatred toward? The dragon’s wrath shifts to those who follow Christ and uphold His teachings.

Standing Firm in Our Identity

Who is known for adhering to the commandments of the Old Testament? Could it be the religious Jews who do not recognize Christ as their Messiah? Who upholds faith and bears witness to Jesus? Could it be those known worldwide as Christians, the children of the King?

REFLECT & PRAY

At this very moment, the Lord Jesus Christ is preparing a special place for us in our Father’s house (John 14:2-6).

Father, there is no place like home. Thank You for adopting me and making me part of Your Forever Family. My home is not defined by the physical location where I live. It is where my family is.

INSIGHT

Citizens of Heaven, Aliens on Earth

Philippians 3:20 tells us, “We are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we eagerly await his return as our Savior.” Yet, as citizens of heaven, we find ourselves temporarily dwelling as aliens on earth. How should we live in this foreign land?

This question is not new. God’s people have lived as exiles before. Take, for instance, the descendants of Abraham, who God told would live as resident aliens in a foreign land. Acts 7:6 reminds us that “God also told Abraham that his descendants would live as aliens in a foreign land, where they would be oppressed as slaves for 400 years.” The longing for home and the tension of living in a fallen world have always been part of the story of God’s people.

Even Peter, addressing early believers, wrote in 1 Peter 2:11, “Dear friends, I warn you as aliens and foreigners to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls.”

But what does it look like to live faithfully as temporary residents? The counsel given by Jeremiah to the Jewish exiles in Babylon sheds light on this question.

How to Live as Aliens in a Foreign Land

God’s instructions through Jeremiah were clear yet surprising. He told the exiles to settle in and live fully, even in their place of exile, a land far from their true home. His words are found in Jeremiah 29:5-7: “Build homes, and plan to stay. Plant gardens and eat the food they produce. Marry and have children. Then find spouses for them so that you may have many grandchildren. Multiply! Do not dwindle! And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your own welfare.”

What a remarkable perspective! Rather than dream endlessly of an imminent return to their homeland, the exiles were instructed to make the most of their current situation. They were to build, plant, marry, and grow. But Jeremiah didn’t stop there. He called them to an even higher standard—to promote peace and prosperity for the very city where they were exiled. Not only that, but they were commanded to pray for their captors and their city.

A Revolutionary Call

Praying for Babylon, a city that represented oppression and tyranny? It sounds absurd, even revolutionary. Yet, this principle remains timeless and holds wisdom for children of the King today. The Lord Jesus Christ Himself echoed this teaching in Matthew 5:44, saying, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

Why should we, as citizens of heaven, seek the peace and prosperity of the earthly places we inhabit? The answer lies in our interconnectedness. Jeremiah explains that the welfare of the exiles is tied to the welfare of the city. When the city prospers, so do its inhabitants.

This approach is both practical and deeply spiritual. Jeremiah doesn’t command God’s people to conform to the city’s standards or to seek superficial peace. Instead, they are called to actively contribute to the city’s good, all while holding fast to their identity as God’s people.

Lessons for Believers Today

History has shown that the Jewish people have followed this pattern throughout time. Feinberg notes, “What unusual advice for Jeremiah to give his exiled countrymen! History shows that in all the centuries of their worldwide dispersion, the Jews have tried to follow this pattern. They have identified themselves with the country of their residence while at the same time looking toward eventual restoration to their native land.”

Similarly, Willis explains, “This passage reminds believers that their general economic welfare is tied to the society in which they live. For this reason alone, the LORD tells them to pray for the city in which they live. They are not expected to promote or even condone the standards of their society. They are to pray for it for their own sake.”

Pilgrims Passing Through

Even now, we live as pilgrims in a world not our own. Scripture reminds us that our ultimate citizenship is in heaven and that this world is dominated by the enemy of our souls, the god of this world. We are outsiders and strangers and stand out because we have absolute values, not relative ones. We believe in Truth, not truth for now. We are called to live differently.

We are strangers in this land, marked by our firm convictions and unshakable values. We believe in timeless Truth, not fleeting cultural norms. This difference, though challenging, is our testimony to a watching world.

Called to Live with Purpose

What does God require of His children in a foreign land? He asks us to live fully, with integrity and righteousness. We are to make the most of our circumstances while holding fast to His truth. Just as the exiles in Babylon were called to build, plant, grow, and contribute to the well-being of their city, so we are called to live with purpose in the places where God has placed us.

The question we must ask ourselves is this: “Father, what would You have me do as I live here and now?”

The answer will shape how we live as citizens of heaven, even while we walk as aliens on earth. Our role is not to shrink back but to thrive, to reflect God’s love and truth, and to pray fervently for the world around us, all while keeping our eyes on our eternal home.

¯_(ツ)_/¯3-16-2

© Dr. H 2025

A Happy Face ∙∙

A Happy Face ∙∙

A joyful heart makes a cheerful face, and a broken heart crushes the spirit. – Proverbs 15:13

Proverbs 17:22 A cheerful heart is good medicine.

The Power of a Smile

Smiling is far more than a simple facial expression; it has the power to transform our mood, brighten our day, and even improve our overall well-being. Studies in brain chemistry reveal that smiling activates facial muscles, which, in turn, stimulate the brain to release endorphins. These remarkable chemicals are natural mood elevators, often referred to as the body’s “feel-good hormones.”

Not all smiles are created equal, however. Genuine smiles, known as Duchenne smiles, engage the entire face, including the eyes and mouth. They’re easy to spot because they cause the corners of the eyes to crinkle, forming crow’s feet that reflect genuine happiness or joy. These smiles aren’t just visually pleasing; they also have profound effects on our mood and health, making them far more impactful than mere polite or forced smiles.

The Science Behind Smiling

Endorphins, which are released when we smile, belong to a category of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. The term “endorphin” is derived from “endogenous morphine,” signaling their role as natural painkillers. Endorphins reduce stress, elevate our sense of contentment, and even create feelings of euphoria.

Research highlights the significant health benefits of smiling, especially Duchenne smiles. A groundbreaking study found that people who smile genuinely and often are more likely to live longer. Those with Duchenne smiles have a 70% chance of living to age 80, compared to just 50% for those who rarely smile. Clearly, smiling doesn’t just reflect joy; it also contributes to better health and a longer lifespan.

A Lesson from Music and Culture

The timeless lyrics of the song “Put on a Happy Face,” sung by Dick Van Dyke in the musical “Bye Bye Birdie,” illustrate the enduring value of a cheerful expression:

Gray skies are gonna clear up,
Put on a happy face.
Brush off the clouds and cheer up,
Put on a happy face.
And spread sunshine all over the place,
And put on a happy face.

While deeply optimistic, these lyrics also touch on an important truth confirmed by modern science. Choosing to smile—even when we don’t feel like it—is a practice that can uplift both ourselves and those around us.

Biblical Wisdom on Joy

Science and culture aren’t the only sources that highlight the power of joy and smiling. The Scriptures provide additional insight into how our inner emotions reflect in our outer expressions. Solomon, well-known for his wisdom, recognized the connection between joy and health thousands of years ago. Modern research has only confirmed what Solomon knew 3000 years ago.

Proverbs 17:22 reminds us that “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person’s strength.”

Proverbs 15:13 explains, “A joyful heart makes a cheerful face.”

These verses teach that happiness starts within and naturally reveals itself outwardly. The Hebrew scriptures literally translate the phrase as, “A joyful heart makes good faces.” Whether it’s described as “a happy face,” “bright eyes,” or “a visible expression of joy.” “If a person is happy, everyone sees it in his face” (UBS).

Joy That Shines Through

As Solomon wisely observed, a cheerful heart truly is good medicine. When we smile, the happiness that begins in the heart spills out into the world. A genuine, heartfelt smile not only brightens our own lives but also the lives of everyone who shares in its warmth. Smiling is more than just a reaction to joy; it spreads joy. Choose to smile, not just for yourself but as a gift to those around you.

REFLECT & PRAY

Our external circumstances do not determine a cheerful heart and a genuine smile; instead, they arise from the deeper reality of God’s presence within us. Joy is not something we create; it is a gift from Him, a radiance that starts in our spirit and shines outward for the world to see.

Father, Your joy is my constant companion, a wellspring that never runs dry, even in life’s storms. Help me to reflect Your joy in my countenance. May my cheerful expression be a reflection of Your inner presence.

INSIGHT

The Inner Reflection of a Cheerful Face

A cheerful face reveals more than a fleeting mood; it is a clear reflection of a joyful and healthy inner self. When our hearts are at peace and filled with joy, it naturally radiates outward and is evident in our expressions. Our spiritual state has a profound effect on our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. A cheerful heart and a genuine smile can serve as powerful medicine, helping to release tension and emotional stress from within.

On the other hand, emotions such as anger and bitterness can lead to significant tension, which can, in turn, diminish our overall health. They not only undermine our relationship with the Father but also impede our ability to connect meaningfully with others. It is crucial to identify and eliminate these negative feelings in order to enhance both our spiritual and relational well-being.

The Call to Lay Aside the Old Self

How can we cultivate a joyful heart and overcome the negative emotions that hold us back? The apostle Paul offers straightforward yet profound guidance in Ephesians 4:31: “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as types of evil behavior.”

The phrase “get rid of” originates from the Greek word airo, meaning “to lift up” or “take away.” It has the sense of “eliminate or take away, put out of sight (forever).”

Paul illustrates this transformation vividly in Colossians 3, comparing it to changing clothes. He implores the children of the King to put off the old, sinful nature and intentionally clothe themselves in qualities that mirror God’s character.

Colossians 3:5 encourages us to “put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you.”
Colossians 3:8-10 adds, “Now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. Put on your new nature and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like Him.”

This transformation is not passive; it demands determination and diligence. It requires not just a decision but disciplined follow-through, much like committing to a lifestyle change to improve physical health or fitness.

Clothing Ourselves in Christlikeness

Through the Holy Spirit, God has already provided us with the resources needed for this transformation. From Paul’s perspective, the work is done—we have already stripped off the old sinful nature. Now, it is up to us to live in the reality of that truth.

Colossians 3:9 affirms, “You have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds.”

This renewed perspective forms the foundation for a profound transformation. We are no longer trapped by anger, bitterness, or destructive habits. Instead, the Holy Spirit empowers us to respond with peace, gentleness, forgiveness, and love, no matter the situation.

Paul presents a powerful vision of what we are meant to embody. We are called to cultivate and embody Christ-like virtues in our daily lives.

Colossians 3:12-13 urges us to “clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.”

These virtues foster genuine joy, peace, and unity. When we practice forgiveness, patience, and love, we reflect Christ’s character not only in our hearts but also in the way we interact with others.

Rising Above Through the Holy Spirit

Through the Holy Spirit, God has given us everything we need to experience true transformation. From Paul’s viewpoint, the work is already complete—we have cast off our old sinful nature. Now, it is up to us to walk in the truth of that reality.

Colossians 3:9 reminds us, “You have taken off your old self with its practices.”

This transformation starts with how we see ourselves. We are no longer bound by anger, bitterness, or destructive habits. Instead, the Holy Spirit empowers us to choose peace, compassion, forgiveness, and love, regardless of the challenges we face.

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© Dr. H 2025

Better than new ∙∙

Better than new ∙∙

Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! – 2 Corinthians 5:17

Luke 5:36-39

36 Then Jesus gave them this illustration: No one tears a piece of cloth from a new garment and uses it to patch an old garment. For then, the new garment would be ruined, and the new patch wouldn’t even match the old garment.
37 And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. For the new wine would burst the wineskins, spilling the wine and ruining the skins.
38 New wine must be stored in new wineskins.

Upcycling Your Life

Do you have old clothes gathering dust in your closet? Clothes that no longer fit, or styles that feel outdated? Instead of taking them to the thrift shop, why not “upcycle” them? With a bit of creativity and a few sewing skills, you can repurpose old garments into something fresh and useful. That pair of jeans could become a trendy tote bag, or those worn-out shirts could turn into fabric patches for your next project.

When upcycling clothes, there’s an important rule to follow: never mix old fabric with new fabric. Sewing fresh material onto worn fabric can often lead to problems, as the stitches may not hold, and the fabric can tear even further. Putting new wine in old wineskins is inherently problematic. New wine expands as it ferments. The gases would cause the old wineskins to burst, resulting in the loss of both the wine and the wineskins. The key takeaway is that the old and the new cannot be effectively combined. Attempting to merge them is not only impractical but also unwise and wasteful.

This principle applies not only to material things but also conveys a more profound spiritual truth beyond mere fabric, thread, wine, and wineskins.

A Deeper Lesson – Transformation

Our lives resemble old clothes. The habits, thoughts, and behaviors we cling to can sometimes feel like they can be repaired. However, when we attempt to fix them superficially or only temporarily, those repairs don’t hold. As a result, we find ourselves trapped in a recurring cycle of struggle, disappointment, and frustration. It often feels like we, as children of the King, are constantly trying to mend issues that never seem to stay resolved.

The truth is that our old selves cannot simply be patched up. A more profound, radical transformation is necessary. Our Father in heaven doesn’t offer us quick fixes; instead, He provides complete changeover. Through His infinite wisdom and love, His strategy involves an exchange—replacing the old with something entirely new.

Radical Transformation Through Metamorphosis

A caterpillar and a butterfly are the same creature. One is earthbound; the other is capable of flight. A caterpillar crawls on the ground, climbs branches, and spends its life munching on leaves. Over time, through a process of metamorphosis, it’s transformed into a butterfly, capable of flight. The butterfly retains its original DNA, but its nature, abilities, and instincts have undergone a complete transformation. It now flutters gracefully, sipping nectar from flowers instead of chewing on leaves.

The transformation that the Lord Jesus Christ brings into our lives is profound. Through Him, we are upcycled—from being earthbound to becoming heavenward, from being constrained to experiencing true freedom, and from being broken to becoming whole. Although we remain the same person, this inner transformation enables us to live in a completely new way, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Why Patching Up the Old Won’t Work

Many patterns we follow in life are shaped by worldly wisdom and influenced by our experiences, cultural norms, and human reasoning. The book of James describes this kind of wisdom as “earthly, natural, and demonic” (James 3:15). It is characterized by short-sightedness and self-centeredness and is rooted in a fallen world. Attempting to repair our lives using this type of wisdom only leads to further damage. Simply patching things up will not achieve our goals; in fact, earthly wisdom ultimately becomes obsolete.

When we accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, we were transformed and shaped from godly wisdom instead.

The Father’s wisdom, “from above,” is not about merely fixing what’s broken; it’s about complete renewal. James 3:17 beautifully describes what this wisdom entails: it is pure, peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, and without hypocrisy. This wisdom invites us into a life guided by God, grounded in love, integrity, and eternal hope, and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Living a Fully Upcycled Life

This new life isn’t something we earn or create on our own. It’s a gift from God. This divine wisdom, freely given, transforms us from the inside out.

The transformation is neither immediate nor accidental—it requires deliberate effort and intention. Just as a butterfly must learn to spread its wings and take flight, our new lives in Christ demand dedication, growth, and continual nourishment from God’s Word. By immersing ourselves in His truth, meditating on His promises, and seeking His guidance daily, we gradually align our hearts and minds with His divine wisdom. With each step of faith and obedience, we grow stronger, more confident, and more attuned to the life He has called us to live.

REFLECT & PRAY

God’s wisdom fosters harmony and peace, whereas human wisdom fosters arrogance and conflict. Which type of wisdom do you usually depend on (Stanley)?

Father, thank You for bringing me into Christ, allowing me to rise above my former limitations through the power of resurrection life.

INSIGHT

A New Creation in Christ

Paul explained that something remarkable happens to every child of the King, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”

The promise in this verse is extraordinary. It doesn’t suggest a minor makeover or a slight improvement. Instead, it declares something entirely new has been forged “In Christ.” But what does it truly mean to be “In Christ,” and how does this transformation manifest in our lives?

What Does It Mean to Be “In Christ”?

To be “In Christ” means to be united with Him in a deep, personal relationship. It’s not simply about receiving forgiveness or cleansing for past wrongs. It’s about being supernaturally joined to Christ in such a way that we are inseparable from Him. This isn’t a surface-level connection. It’s a merging, a spiritual union that transforms us entirely.

Think of it this way: We are no longer who we once were with a few spiritual patches tacked on; we are fundamentally changed. Our identity, our very essence, has been redefined because we are now part of Him.

A Comparison: The Creation of Steel

Consider how steel is made. Steel forms when iron is combined with carbon and heated to an extremely high temperature. This process creates an entirely new substance with properties that neither iron nor carbon possesses on its own.

Similarly, being “in Christ” extends beyond simply incorporating Jesus into our old lives. It involves Him creating something new within us. We are transformed into a completely different entity, a new creation, fused with Christ in a way that can never be reversed.

The Gift of Resurrection Life

In Greek, two words are translated as “life”: bios, referring to physical life, and zoe, referring to spiritual, eternal life. When we are born, we possess only physical life, or bios. When we accept the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord, we are born again; we are given zoe, spiritual and eternal life.

We have crossed the threshold from all that has come before. We are now merged into what is new. What is the new life we now experience? Christ was crucified and buried. He was resurrected to new life. Now that we are united with Christ, He shares His new life with us. In other words, the life of the resurrected Christ now lives and flows in and through each child of the King.

This new life is not just about what happens after death; it’s about how we live now. It’s more than a promise of a future resurrection; it is an immediate reality. Currently, as children of the King, we possess resurrection life within us.

Philippians 3:10 expresses this beautifully, saying that we can “know Him and the power of His resurrection.”

The limitations of our old selves do not constrain this life. It empowers us to live in freedom, walk in intimacy with God, and experience the power of His resurrection in our daily lives.

But there’s more!

Living in the Power of Resurrection

Resurrection life is a present reality, empowering us to overcome sin, fear, and the struggles of our earthly existence. When Christ enters our lives, He offers us a new beginning and an entirely different way to live. We can draw on God’s wisdom, strength, and guidance to live a life of purpose, joy, and victory.

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© Dr. H 2025