Are there choice Bible verses that I could give my patients to put their thoughts on God?

on Feb 13, 2026

Woman in physical therapy. Dreamstime/TCA

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: As a doctor who has been in practice for more than 10 years, I see patients who are physically fit. And while I would not diagnose them as having emotional problems, they are consumed with the potential of having health challenges. Fortunately, I work in a small clinic owned by Christian physicians. Are there choice Bible verses that I could give them to encourage them to put their thoughts on God and what He might have for them to do? Many work themselves into depression when there is no health reason to support it. – C.D.

A: There is a close relationship between our minds and bodies. Proverbs puts it this way: “A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones” (17:22, NKJV). Doctors and scientists agree with this truth proclaimed in Scripture.

There is also a close relationship between our mental and physical health and the health of our spiritual lives. Guilt, fear, jealousy, bitterness, futility, escapism – these and a host of other problems are spiritual ills brought about by the disease of sin. Like poison, they can sicken us in mind and body. There are many things that cause depression, but anxiety is certainly one culprit. The more a person feeds on anxious thoughts, the more anxiety grows.

When Christ comes into our lives, He removes our guilt and takes away our fears. He gives us love for others and a new purpose in life. His joy and peace neutralize sin’s poison – and that promotes emotional and physical health. This doesn’t necessarily mean that our emotional and physical problems will vanish, but like pure water, God’s peace in our hearts brings cleansing and refreshment to our whole being.

The Bible is filled with passages that bring comfort and joy. Reading and dwelling on them will bring comfort and peace. “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15, NKJV).

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)