Perhaps you have noticed some of the happiest people are not necessarily the richest. Those who are happiest have learned to cherish values that run deeper than the American dream. Perhaps some Americans are finally realizing they are chasing the wrong dream in their pursuit of materialism. The Grammy award in 1992 went to Janet Jackson and Luther Vandross for the song: “Money Can’t Buy Everything.”
“The best things in life are free
Now that I’ve discovered
What you mean to me
The best things in life are free
Now that we’ve got each other
The best things in life are free”
There are values that each of us unconsciously or consciously live by. These are the principles by which we have meaning and purpose in life. The scientific literature calls these principles: moral determinants of health. Moral determinants of health are being increasingly recognized as the backbone of our health. The prestigious Journal of American Medical Association recently published an article stating that our social and health behaviors are not enough to support good health in our country. Our choices, which are based on our knowledge of right and wrong, form the foundation of a healthy and happy individual, family and nation.
While the Hydrothermal Therapy Training Course may focus on teaching simple, at-home methods for common health concerns, we recognize this is not enough or even effective on its own. There is an inseparable connection between getting “fully well” with health and wellness principles. True health means you have a purpose and values to live for and an ability to carry out that purpose. We may learn our purpose and values from the One who created us. Below are resources on two important areas of spiritual care. Best of all, these things are free for the taking. Start your journey today!
Berwick DM. The Moral Determinants of Health. JAMA. 2020;324(3):225–226. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.11129
PERSONAL SPIRITUAL CARE
“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.”
3 John 2
God created us mind, body, and spirit. This means that there is a direct correlation between our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. If we desire to have optimum health, we need to attend to all three so we can discover balance, personal peace, hope, and fullness of joy. Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” John 10:10. In order to experience abundant life, we invite you to dig into the treasure chest of God’s Word by choosing one of these study guides.
Creation Life Study Guides – https://itiswritten.shop/products/creation-life-study-guides?fbclid=IwAR2UnYBznE7o6_p5QexXS_J6ZLT-fgm3zQeDnPompOPLR3cNBBzRHOjeWeg
The CREATION Life study guides combine scientific researched and biblically-based ways to improve health and well-being. They cover topics of choice, rest, environment, activity, trust, interpersonal relationships, outlook, and nutrition. This framework for living an abundant life will help you live healthier, be happier, feel stronger, and experience trust in a new way.
Amazing Bible Studies – https://amazingbiblestudies.com
Free Bible Study Guides https://bibleschools.com
Amazing Facts Bible Media Library – https://www.amazingfacts.org/media-library
SPIRITUAL CARE IN HEALTH MINISTRY
A reading of the Gospels reveals that Jesus ministered not just to the physical needs of others but also to their hearts. His healing ministry included leading them to recognize their spiritual need and finding Him in eternal life. As medical missionaries, we must not neglect this important work. Here are some resources that can assist you in providing spiritual care to those you serve.
“The Work of the Physician: The Co-working of the Divine and Human” – Chapter 7 Ministry of Healing by Ellen G. White
Spiritual Questions – How can you transition from physical care to spiritual care? Here are some questions you can ask to initiate spiritual conversations.