Spread the Cheer

There are countless shortages in this world: perhaps right now, we're all wondering if we need to stock-up on this or that. May I suggest a real shortage that none of us will find on store shelves nor waiting to be unloaded from some foreign or domestic shore ... that is, a smile. Some experts propose it is 15-20 muscles engaged in both frowning and smiling, however, few agree whether it's frowning or smiling that give the face a muscular break! God's eternal Word of Truth says: "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." (Proverbs 17:22, ESV) ... "A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed." (Proverbs 15:13, ESV). Maybe you've also discovered it's an exercise in futility to look in the mirror and practice smiling; wanna know why? A smile doesn't originates from facial muscles; a genuine smile comes from a heart that is devoted to The Lord, the source of real joy and sheer delight and deep cheerfulness! The shortage of joy and delight and good cheer is something every Believer can do something about. Job said, "I will put off my sad face, and be of good cheer." (Job 9:27, ESV). What this world is short-of and in need-of are kind faces illuminated by a hearts filled-to-overflowing with the Love of God. Children of God, let's be challenged and encouraged to do something about this shortage: If The Lord is Lord of you, let your face speak of it ... smile, spread the cheer!