01/18/2025
I know that a lot of people think that religion and the Bible are irrelevant today. My sermon this week is on kindness and how practicing kindness improves the lives of both the person you were kind to and you. The Bible verse 2 Peter 1:5-7 says, “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.”
Every act of kindness brings us closer to God, closer to Jesus.
I don’t doubt that some people reading this will say, “Show me the proof.” Well, here’s the proof. A website Neurolaunch.com publishes evidence-based articles on psychology and brain science
They explain that in the depths of your brain is a neural pathway called the mesolimbic pathway. It’s like the brain’s very own reward system,. When you engage in an act of service, an act of kindness, this pathway lights up and produces Dopamine, the feel-good neurotransmitter.
Dopamine is released when you’re being altruistic, creating what scientists call a “helper’s high.” It’s like a natural euphoria. And the best part? The more you help others, the more your brain craves it. It creates a cycle of kindness, with your brain cheering you on every step of the way.
This isn’t just a fleeting high. Consistent acts of service can lead to long-term changes in your brain chemistry. It’s like you’re rewiring your brain to be kind.
So, living your life according to God’s scriptures can have a positive impact on your life and your happiness.
