Proverbs 17:22,
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.”
One of the things I teach each of my grandchildren is that we all have something we can give to people that costs us nothing, but when given, it provides the receiver with great riches. When they first hear this they wonder what it is and I simply look at them and say, “Your smile”, it costs you nothing to give, but when you give it, it might be the most important gift that person received that day.
I firmly believe that a cheerful countenance is something that each of us, as God’s child, must share with this world. Have you ever watched the cars passing or the people in stores? Look into their faces, see their eyes; what do you see? Take time the next time you go into public and take notice of the faces you encounter. Make a point of making eye contact and giving them your smile. Watch as they react to your smile; if you receive a smile in turn, you are blessed; but most likely, the person will look around to see if you’re smiling at them or they will cast their eyes downward or away; or worst of all, you may receive a scowling look.
But continue to smile, even those who give those terrible looks will remember “that person who smiled.” Trust that the LORD will use that gift of grace to reach their heart that day. Take that opportunity to pray for their pain; ask the Holy Spirit to minister to them. There are so many hurting people that grope through each day and there are even more who just move through life too fast and forget that they live in a world of people.
I’m sure you’ve heard this passage rephrased by the world “the best medicine is a merry heart”, but it’s not just a heart that is happy all the time but it is a heart that is rejoicing in God and His mercies that is medicinal to our souls, our minds and our bodies. A heart that takes the life and circumstances God has provided and shares His grace with others through even a simple smile is blessed.
The smile God has given you may be the very thing the broken spirit you encounter needs for this day. Do not be stingy with your smiles; give them to everyone. You never know who needed this precious treasure to make it through the day. And notice at the end of your day, that the smiles you gave blessed you too; you just can’t out give God; He will bless you for being a messenger of His love.
Prayer: Father, we come unto your altar this day and we are filled with exceeding joy; we will praise you through our reflection of your love in us. Our souls will not be downcast and we will not remain quiet; we will share your love with those who need to be reminded that God loves them. LORD, the joy we have in our hearts is health to our bones and we ask that our countenance reflect your mercies to those we encounter. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.
Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro, ©
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