Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, just as it is well with your soul (3 John 1:2).
Consider the following report that appeared on CNN. On January 3, 2009, after the death of the Guinness Book of World Records' oldest person, Maria de Jesus age 115, next in line was Gertrude Baines from Los Angeles. Born to slaves near Atlanta in 1894, she was described at 114 years old as "spry," "cheerful," and "talkative." When she was 112 years old, Ms. Baines was asked by a CNN correspondent to explain why she thought she had lived so long. Her reply: "God. Ask Him. I took good care of myself, the way he wanted me to." Brief and to the point.
Studies on the benefits of religious or spiritual beliefs show:
• an improved sense of well-being or happiness, hope, optimism, and meaning and purpose in life
• a greater sense of personal control in challenging life situations
• reduction of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts
• greater marital stability
• better social support and more positive relationships
• "For older adults in particular, the most common source of social support outside of family members comes from members of religious organizations."
• Frequent attendance at religious services increased longevity on average by 37%
Faith = Health! May your faith life bring you health and peace, contentment and joy!
