“Is anyone among you cheerful? He is to sing praises.” James 5:13b
“Cheerful” is not a word that I usually associate with the Book of James. Wedged among the thorny warnings to “weep and howl” and to have “the patience of Job” is this beautifully scented word.
In a world filled with the poisonous thorns of challenges, chaos, confusion, and critics, the church produces the refreshing rose of cheerfulness. How? Intimate, consistent companionship with Jesus provides welcome relief from the intimidation of the immediate.
Cheerfulness is one part goodness, and one part passion. Christian cheerfulness confronts the powerful heat, and the fierceness of the world's rage with goodness. It converts intimidation into courageous passion marked by an expression of joy.
NOTE TO SELF: Cheerfulness is your heart enflamed with the courage to overcome. When you are cheerful, you stay in the battle with a smile on your face and the will to win in your heart.
In every sense of the word, cheerfulness describes those happy warriors who fight in the shade of "The Champion," Jesus Christ. Don't face your fears. Face Him.
TALK LESS! PRAY MORE!