“A cheerful look brings joy to the heart and good news gives health to the bones." Proverbs 15:30
King Solomon who was considered the wisest man who ever lived, gave this simple, yet powerful lesson - the importance of a smile and an optimistic word. As you move throughout your day, working, walking, traveling, attending a conference or whatever, do you take time to look at the countenances of the people you meet. You’ll notice a variety of expressions. Sometimes a scowl or a frown, maybe a look of anxiety and worry. You may meet expressions of deep concentration, anger or total absentmindedness.
These expressions don’t do too much for us, but what about that special face, with eyes shining and mouth smiling at us? What’s your first reaction - to smile back of course. Suddenly your whole heart is cheered up. I often feel I want to talk to that happy person. I think we should ask God to remind us to put a smile on our faces so we can bring joy to the heart of others. There is a young woman on the staff at Women Alive who glows with the light of Jesus. She always greets visitors with a cheerful look, and Solomon was right – we always leave with a heart full of joy.
What about good news and an optimistic report? A few weeks ago some friends visited me for a few days at my cottage. We had some work to do to prepare it for the summer, like putting up screens, washing windows, cleaning cupboards, along with other things. But the hours of work flew by and we enjoyed wonderful hours of sharing about what God is doing in our lives, reading special scripture passages and praying together. We all felt invigorated and energized by our time together – good news and an optimistic outlook gave ‘health to our bones.’
Who are the people in your life that are contributing joy to your heart and health to your bones? They are the ones you should stick to.
I’d love to hear how this is happening to you or how you are blessing others in this way. Please send me your thoughts.
Until next time,
Eileen
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2 comments:
When I read your post, I thought back on my recent history and realized that the Steeltown Toastmaster's Club I attend every Wednesday evening is one of those smiling, laughing, friendly places where everyone works to build each other up. The Thursday morning church-related Women's Group is another one of those places.
A friend sent me this link to UTube. This is bound to make you laugh. A Cheerful Heart is Good Medicine. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jedd2FiZTqM
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