I know there are times when we just do not want to smile or something has taken place that has robbed us of our joy and it truly takes effort to even function.  But, let’s face it, IF God lets you wake up today, that is something to smile about.  You get yet another chance to live, to love better, and be a better person, or friend to those around your sphere of influence. 

            The world truly is in a mess right now and it seems to be grower ever worse.  That is when we must turn to the Bible to see what God tells us.  God’s Word is what we follow, not the dictates of our own hearts, which can be deceptive (Jer. 17:9-10).  Do not get trapped into feeling, thinking, or believing something without consulting God’s Word.  His Word is your final authority and what is more is that it gives us hope to go on.

            Now, let’s get back to the smiling thing.  Have you ever noticed someone who walks into the room and they just light up the place?  Everyone wants to be around them.  They smile and ask how everyone else is.  Their focus is always on the other person.  How do they do it?

            I have always visualized circumstances to try and understand how others might feel.  I imagine sitting in an office (and I have sat in many) and a co-worker, who I have to be with day-in and day-out,  continually comes through the door, each and every morning, with a scowl on their face.   You sit there watching this day after day, so what or how do you respond? It can be tiring to everyone and very disheartening.  

            Years ago, I heard someone say, “Fake it ‘til you make it!”  I think the first thing I thought was ‘fake what?’  But, the principal goes right back to the Word of God.  The Apostle Paul was a prisoner and through a series of events lands before King Agrippa to explain what he has done.  He is there to plead his case in order that he might not be killed.  He tells him point blank (without hesitation), “I think myself happy, King Agrippa, because today I shall answer for myself before you concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews” (Acts 26:2). Now, if Paul (a prisoner) can rise up within himself in the midst of a great trial then we, as followers of Christ, take our cue from him and his actions.  He could have cried, begged and been downtrodden, but the fact remains that he totally trusted in a living Savior to help him.  Get the point?    

            Yes, we all go through trials, but it is how you handle those trials showing your actions to a holy God that can (and will) turn your circumstances.  Show Him you believe He is real, pray and ask Him to help you.  Show Him that you are not going to allow anything to get you down.  The great Apostle had a living relationship with a sovereign God, so he could depend on His help and be happy in the midst.  I can tell you from experience that no one wants to be around someone who is dreary all the time.  As a matter of fact, they will separate themselves from you.

            And, what is more (and this is a secret key), when you purpose to smile you will begin to feel better inside and it will show.  Life is hard, but it is how you handle life that can ultimately win the outcome for you.  Make the clear choice this day to smile. The world says that anything goes.  The Kingdom of God says, ‘transform your world, and influence others, by letting them see Jesus in you.’  It might be the only time that they catch a glimpse of Him.  And, when you smile just see if the whole world won’t (eventually!) smile with you.  One thing is certain, though, you will be a happier individual.

BE the light in the darkness,

Molly