“A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.”
Proverbs 15:30
When I was a child, a young woman serving with Child Evangelism arrived in town, bringing the gift of laughter wherever she went. Through her winsome, sunny spirit, she shared the message of Jesus with children like me. God used her joy to bring the truth of salvation to many.
Personally, I tend to be more serious-minded rather than fun-loving. But that is a surface description of me. My heart does overflow with the joy and wonder of the Lord’s grace. And I remind myself of what the Proverbs writer says: “A happy heart makes the face cheerful” (15:13).
The Bible speaks often of joy. Even the trees of the forest will sing for joy (Psalm 96:12). Nehemiah instructed the exiles returning to their land not to grieve because the joy of the Lord would be their strength (8:10). And of course, the angel messenger arrived in the Bethlehem fields to tell the shepherds, “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people” (Luke 2:10). Nothing cheers the heart more than knowing our Rescuer has come to redeem our sinful hearts.
Personally, I tend to be more serious-minded rather than fun-loving. But that is a surface description of me. My heart does overflow with the joy and wonder of the Lord’s grace. And I remind myself of what the Proverbs writer says: “A happy heart makes the face cheerful” (15:13).
The Bible speaks often of joy. Even the trees of the forest will sing for joy (Psalm 96:12). Nehemiah instructed the exiles returning to their land not to grieve because the joy of the Lord would be their strength (8:10). And of course, the angel messenger arrived in the Bethlehem fields to tell the shepherds, “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people” (Luke 2:10). Nothing cheers the heart more than knowing our Rescuer has come to redeem our sinful hearts.
Scripture Focus
Proverbs 15:29-33
Insight
“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” (Proverbs 17:22)
Bible In A Year
- 1 Kings 19-20
- Proverbs 9
- Hebrews 12
