God-Given Ways to Boost Dopamine Found in the Bible

Do you ever feel like you’re addicted to your phone? Or binge-watching the next new hit on TV? Or shopping just for the retail therapy? That buzz of excitement you feel every time you watch a hilarious video or smile-worthy scene or unpack your shopping haul is thanks to the dopamine hormone.

You’re not alone in feeling that rush those things bring. John and Tiffanie have been talking in the mornings about dopamine and their desire to chase after it, along with their struggle in spending too much time on their phones. They’re noticing that it seems as if their pursuit of dopamine leaves them more exhausted than filled. It seems natural to come to the conclusion that dopamine itself is the problem, right?

But God created dopamine, and it’s a good thing. Instead, it seems that the problem stems from where we go looking for it. At the end of the day, looking to anything other than our Creator will only leave us empty and exhausted. Instead of scrolling, shopping, or binge-watching, consider these God-given ways to boost dopamine found in the Bible:

• Gratitude – “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus,” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
• Worship – “Singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts,” Ephesians 5:19, and “Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker,” Psalm 95:6
• Connection – “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing,” 1 Thessalonians 5:11
• Generosity – “And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive,’” Acts 20:35
• Purposeful work – “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people,” Colossians 3:23-24
• Time in creation – “The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship,” Psalm 19:1
• Celebration – “Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!” Philippians 4:4

“If you are actually looking for that joy, that rush, that happiness from a place that fulfills you, i.e. the LORD himself,” Tiffanie encourages us, “Then you’re never gonna be disappointed.” 

For the full conversation, press play to listen.