What if I told you I know of a scientific proven pathway that’s available to anyone who has experienced heartache, loss and suffering. I believe you would want to know. I can hear you say: “Tell me what it is!”

I’m so glad you asked. At first, I don’t think you will accept that the key to healing and bringing positive change to brokenness and heartache would be acts of generosity. But it’s true, and let these Biblical truths and the neuroscience prove it to you. 

“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Prov. 11:25

In the original text, the word prosper found in this passage of proverbs has two meanings. One is for the person to be “Fat” - fulfilled, satisfied, content, not obese in weight, but fat of spirit. The second meaning of this word prosper is this: “To take away ashes.”  It refers to the ashes of sorrow and loss, the charred remains of something of value and importance. So the loss of a loved one, a career, one’s security or wealth, and so forth. Being generous has the ability to remove the ashes of one’s experience and to heal the soul. I’m not saying the memory of the loss will be removed and forgotten, but the remaining debris that soils the atmosphere and clutters the soul can be gently whisked away through a giving spirit. 

Then science comes along and doubles down on this truth. Generosity affects the brain in several measurable ways. Research in neuroscience shows that giving, helping, and acts of kindness engage systems connected to reward, connection, stress regulation, and meaning. Acts of generosity stimulate areas associated with pleasure and reward, and is sometimes called the “helper’s high.” Your brain designed by your Creator responds to generosity with benefits that produce overall well-being and counteracts heartache and depression. God’s word, works and your brain will confirm it. Can I encourage you today if you are sensing loneliness, loss, isolation, and or discouragement, give of your talent, abilities and heart. Find someone and make their day better with what you possess. Give it will be given unto you.