When King David got down in the dumps, he knew what to do.

He would tell himself some Good News.

Listen to him as he instructs himself to pull himself together:

Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God!
I will yet praise Him,
My Savior and my God! 

He tells himself to sit up and pay attention!

Look, I know how you feel—but there’s something more important going on here than just feeling sad and upset: Don’t forget to factor in the promises of your God!

The Bible tells us that happiness that comes from trusting God has therapeutic benefits.

And David always knew where to find the meds when he couldn’t touch bottom.

When he felt anxious or fearful, when his heart was overwhelmed:

“David encouraged himself in the Lord his God” (1 Samuel 30:6).

In other words, he took charge of his emotions.

He took captive those thoughts that stampeded through his mind like a bunch of spooked stallions.

He (with the help of the Spirit) brought them under the strong promises and steadfast truths of the Most High God.

The situation may be dire, but:

God is faithful.
His love never fails.
He has a plan, and it’s good!

So no need for a heart filled with doom and gloom.

When David was feeling dread, he would sing, instead.

He played the harp and is credited with writing over half of the 150 psalms in the Bible.

And sure enough—after focusing on God’s promises, the dark clouds gave way to the bright hope that belongs to every ransomed child of God.

Cheerfulness is simply a byproduct of trusting God to work it out.

As soon as you have more faith than fear, the soul is restored and you’re back in those green pastures—happy, healthy, and resting in His love.

So yeah—it’s not just about a good genes, healthy diet, and exercise: your attitude plays a huge role.

That’s why we’re commanded to have joy! (Philippians 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16)

Christian optimism will improve the quality of your life—the Bible says so.

And anyone who knows the Lord and has tasted of His love, can choose to find some joy somewhere, even amidst difficult circumstances.

And while a happy optimism is good medicine, discontentment is a real poison.

No one can thrive consumed with envy, bitterness, or resentment. If you’re nursing a grudge or unwilling to forgive you won’t be sleeping very well. And it just goes on from there.

See how it’s all connected?

But the person who cultivates a grateful, joyful, gracious mindset will proper.

King Solomon advises his readers who know the Lord to enjoy life.

See past the difficulties, by faith, and tell yourself the Truth.

Take your meds. 😊