When people frown their faces, they are expressing negative emotional reactions like frustration, anger, fear, worry, anxiety, insecurity, disappointment and their heart rhythms become irregular. Smiling however is a positive emotional reaction which indicates happiness, joy, love and affection.

All forms of negative emotional expressions are stressful. Studies in health matters have shown that over 90% problems of ill-health are stress-related. The health practitioners today encourage people to wear smiling faces instead of frowning. A voluntary laugh makes your cells very healthy.

Our text today affirms that the joy of the Lord is your strength. Believers are scripturally counselled to rejoice in the Lord, whatever the situation. “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Rejoice evermore” (Philippians 4:5; 1 Thessalonians 5:16). It is not in the Christian conduct to be wearing a frown whatever the trouble. When you cheer up and you are happy, the joy of the Lord will give you strength to face the battle of life. John Mason once said, “A smile is a powerful weapon. It can break the ice in tough situations”. Your life must not be governed by the pressure of negative emotions. Guide up your loins and equip yourself with the power of positive thinking and dispositions that is often expressed by smiling and/or laughing. The way to defeat the enemy is to laugh over your problems; “Casting all your care (burdens) upon him; for he careth for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

Challenge:      Smile and keep yourself healthy.

Prayer:           Lord, keep me happy as I cast all my burden upon you.