A Happy Heart… “A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.” Proverbs 15:13
A happy heart aligns with heaven’s perspective. It is committed to something much broader and nobler than current circumstances. A heart of delight is not in denial about difficulties, nor is it irresponsible about raw reality, but it does take its cheer from Christ. People can encourage us, but it is Jesus that provides eternal encouragement, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me” (John 14:1).
A cheerful face does not mean a heart is not hurting. “Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in grief” (Proverbs 14:13). You can very well be suffering painful rejection from divorce, job loss or a missed opportunity. However, the aching of a hopeful heart is accompanied by assurance anchored in Almighty God. Hurt need not exclude happiness. Go to Jesus for affirmation and He will make your heart whole and happy.
Sometimes, in the moment, your spirit is crushed, as you receive information you don’t completely understand. Someone may treat you disrespectfully, and you later learn of the deep wounds they are carrying without Christ. Maybe a team member is moving on that is a loyal friend and confidant. You feel betrayed and alone. Use this loss to lead you toward the Lord’s love and healing. Our loss is God’s gain in governing our heart.
The disciples felt loss and sorrow before the cross. Jesus discerned this and said, “Because I have said these things, you are filled with grief. But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you” (John 16:6-7). ‘Is my heart full of the Holy Spirit’s control?’ He is the emissary of eternal happiness. A happy heart is full of faith in the Lord. Peer into the face of Christ and you will go away with a cheerful countenance.
Related Readings: Nehemiah 2:2; Proverbs 12:25; Acts 27:25-36; 2 Corinthians 2:7
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
How will I respond?
