Don’t Worry, Be Happy
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things…
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
Galatians 5:22-23 ESV
“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”
Proverbs 17:22 ESV
“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”
Colossians 4:6 ESV
When you are in a room with others, whether it’s at work, family, church, or even the grocery store, how do you carry yourself? Are you aware of the smile you have on, or the sour face you walked in with? Are you slouched over without realizing, or do you stand up tall? Being self-aware is important when exposing yourself to others. Your attitude, behavior, and even choice of words can make or break a moment, or someone’s day.
Pray to God that the Holy Spirit will fill you with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, and also be aware of these things. Your presence around others while reflecting these things can light up a room. And, it’s not just about your impression to others and what other people think. This kind of self control and awareness also lifts your own spirit and attitude. You character and personality brightens, you will be happier.
If you practice these things all of the time, you will eventually create a habit of good and positive behavior, and will change your life. This is much better than having a sour face, droopy posture, not speaking confidently, not being kind or good. You will create a habit of negativity and will project onto others, really bringing down a room. Not to mention, Satan loves it when you are negative, so he will reinforce it with situations to make matters even worse.
By staying positive and faithful, smiling, being kind and gentle in your actions and words, the Lord will bless and use you in situations to help you and others grow. You will become an example of Christ, and will have opportunities to share His Gospel and love.
Dear Lord, Heavenly Father, guide us in our words, our actions, and our presence around others. And also help us to be self aware of these things, even when we are alone. Teach us to love ourselves, to stand up proud in our faithfulness, and to seek you always, in everything we do, in every situation and environment we are in. Make us an instrument of peace and happiness for others by making us happy as we embrace your Word and love. In Jesus Christ’s holy name, amen.