There is a difference between living from day to day and living well — because living well is not always easy. According to industry experts, effective wellness programs include having a work-life balance, taking time to celebrate successes and engaging in de-stressing activities. Other components may include seeking financial prosperity or creating a legacy through participating in a worthy cause.

But what happens when life feels out of balance, celebrations are few or adding one more activity to your calendar creates stress? Just reading that question can make us feel uneasy. And yet, whatever state we’re in, we can connect God’s Word to our well-being. Psalm 1 promises joy to those who “delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do” (Psalm 1:2-3 NLT).

I’m glad riverbank living is possible. From a spiritual perspective, this is prime real estate. It’s the place where what we think, do or feel becomes rooted in who God is and what He has revealed through Scripture.

It’s the focus of my series, “3 Ways to Connect God’s Word to Your Well-being.” To see how you can benefit, here are 5 questions for you to consider a “yes” or “no” response.

1. Does discouragement sit in your mind more than encouragement takes a stand in your heart?
2. Do your days and nights run together because the pace of life doesn’t stop?
3. Does it feel like hope is dwindling and a problem is growing?
4. Are your relationships with others causing more stress than enjoyment?
5. Is anxiety or fear battling your ability to trust God?

This may feel like a gotcha moment. But if you answered “yes” to any of the questions above, you are primed to connect God’s word to your well-being.

Only a deeper dive into a biblical perspective keeps the leaves of our faith from withering.

Even as we set our hearts on God’s Word, in some seasons we may struggle to see much fruit. (Habakkuk 3:17-18) But as we choose to delight in His truth, strong roots grow beneath the surface of our lives. The fruit is guaranteed to break through because God Himself provides the sustenance. He ensures His word is successful in every circumstance. (Isaiah 55:11-13)

If we’re honest, when it comes to living well, we all need help. Thankfully, at every point in life God meets us. (Psalm 139:1-6) I’ve experienced the benefits — and yes, the challenges — of delighting in the law of the Lord; particularly, when a situation was far from delightful.

It’s why I hope you’ll meet me here for the remaining three posts in this series. Whether it is in my life or in the lives of others, I remain amazed by the transformative power of God’s Word to our well-being.

PRAYER: Dear God, you know every detail of my life and the condition of my heart. Where I am broken, heal me. If there is deception or oppression, free me. When I need to trust You more, strengthen me. In the midst of all I desire, may I choose to delight in Your Word. May I meditate on it day and night and experience the joy of riverbank living. In Jesus’ name, amen.

JOY TO THE SOUL: “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me” (Psalm 139:1 NLT).

Peace, hope and joy are featured in the “3 Ways to Connect God’s Word to Your Well-being” series. Read more here!