SMILE

“A joyful heart makes a face cheerful,
but a sad heart produces a broken spirit.“

Proverbs 15:13

“May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal encouragement and good hope by grace, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good work and word.”

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

Smiling elevates our mood and lifts those around us. It can even change the tone of our voices and add a sparkle to our eyes.

Laughter is also important to our health. It can lighten the mood in stressful situations. In high school, I would sometimes say “I am going to shave my head and move to Bolivia.”

I’ve also said many times…
“I’m going to join the circus. It’s calmer there!”
“I’m going to get gas in Florida! (Even though it’s several states away.) They have gas stations there, too!”

We often pass by an “angry house” in a nearby neighborhood. It’s a neutral gray with black shutters. The second story windows are small with pointed roof lines above them, creating the appearance of raised eyebrows. A white wooden fence, with straight up and down boards surrounding the front porch, creates the appearance of a mouth showing all of its teeth in a growl! It’s probably a loving home, full of people who enjoy living there. But I look forward to seeing the house and sharing a giggle with anyone along for the ride.

Genuine happiness comes with the security and joy in one’s heart from the Lord; knowing that whatever you are dealing with, the Lord will be with you to help and care for you. It’s the calm assurance that there is a bigger purpose in your life, even when you struggle.

We still have our rough days and difficult times in life. But just as stress affects our mood and health in a negative way, humor has a healing power in the body, mind, and spirit. When we know who is in charge, we can take life a little lighter and add in time for fun.

PRAYER:
Dear Lord, thank you for smiles to brighten our days and laughter to lighten our hearts. Help us to find ways to share these feelings with others. In Christ’s name, Amen.

Journal: Smile at those you meet today. What are some experiences you can create to add some smiles and humor to your days?