Читать книгу Wellspring - Karen Moore - Страница 18

January 12

When You're Smiling

A joyful heart brightens one's face, but a troubled heart breaks the spirit.

—Proverbs 15:13

Remember the old song that suggested "when you're smiling, the whole world smiles at you"? Proverbs 15 agrees.

Today, notice the difference in your attitude when you encounter someone with a smile. A smile invites you in and suggests that friendship is possible. A smile says all is well and the world is a beautiful place today. A smile puts you on holy ground.

A frown, on the other hand, breaks you down and leaves you feeling uncertain, unavailable, unloved even. Your troubles weigh in and prevent you from seeing all that is good. Of course, you'll have days when a smile is simply not going to carry you along, but do what you can to make those days as few as possible. Imagine the smile God has on his face when he thinks of you. It just may help you to have a lighter and brighter countenance. After all, your smile is what others embrace.

A smile is like a welcome glass of cool water on a warm day. It refreshes you and strengthens you. It warms you as you follow in the footsteps of the One who loves you more than anything. Yes, you really can smile because God loves you.

In the Flow

Lord, I may not always feel like smiling, but I realize that with you in my heart, I always have a reason to smile. No matter what I'm going through, help me to hold on to the hope and joy I have in you. Amen.