It is often easy to lack cheerfulness in your life. There is so much to be upset about that you forget all the good things.
The lack of faith in God in society.
The homeless and hungry throughout the world.
And for many of us, even the unnecessary complaints make us grumpy each day.
A burnt dinner.
A flat tire.
Unfinished chores.
But forgetting to have a cheerful heart in spite of all this can begin to wear you down. It can be a weight on your shoulders that you feel you cannot bear anymore.
Hardships That Crush You
Sometimes, you may also experience hardships that threaten to crush your spirit.
Hard times for your business.
The loss of a loved one.
But God is ALWAYS there for you. You can carry on and find joy again.
Maybe the hardships are a test. Just as God let Job be tested by Satan. Or perhaps he is trying to open your eyes and teach you an important lesson. Whatever it may be, God does everything with a purpose and wants you to have a cheerful heart.
A Cheerful Heart and Mental Health
A crushed spirit is not good for your mental health either. If you are too worn down to care for yourself, how can you care for your family and friends? How can you maintain healthy habits?
“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”
Does this mean you should be happy all the time? The simple answer is no. But finding cheerfulness, even in what feels like utter darkness, can help lift you up and revive your spirit!
This may not mean you always feel like you’re on top of the world, but deep down you appreciate what you have and those in your life who support you.
Regain a Cheerful Heart
If you begin to feel your spirit being crushed, here are a few ways to regain a cheerful heart:
- Count your blessings. Take a moment to sit down and appreciate all the great things God has blessed you with.
- Pray for help. God loves you and always answers prayers. He also wants you to take the time to connect with Him and talk. Reach out to Him and ask for relief, guidance, or anything else you may need. If you can’t think of anything, just tell Him what is going through your mind.
- Take a break. Maybe you just need some time to relax! Sit back and read the bible, listen to some music, or simple rest.
- Get something done. Have a to-do that you just keep pushing back? Complete it! It may help relieve some stress that’s weighing down on you. Exercising may also help you feel like you’ve accomplished a task and will give you a boost of energy.
Without a cheerful heart, many aspects of your life can begin to crumble. It can also begin to affect those around you. However, joy can be found in the Lord and He is always by your side. Put your trust in a God and let his endless love and joy fill your heart to overflowing.
