A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

Joy in our hearts brings gladness to all around us and it keeps our optimism alive, even during the worst of times.

What is it that keeps us focused on God’s blessings instead of this world’s problems? Is it not a desire to be free from the worry and pain that a mindset of defeat brings?

So when wounded, hurt, full of heartache or despair, we just need to turn to those things we can be thankful for and let them cheer us up. It is not easy to do this. But it is critical in order to leave behind those things which rob us of our joy.

The Apostle Paul put it this way: “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭11‬-‭13‬)

So if I truly believe that I can do all this through the power and strength God gives me … then what is it that I fear?

Lord, thank you for this gift of your Son Jesus, my coming salvation, and your Spirit that lives inside of me. I choose to be cheerful about these things and many other blessings today. Then, this good medicine will heal me up to be more useful for you!