Proverbs 15:13
A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance:
But by sorrow the heart is broken.
This proverb deals with one of the most important emotional aspects of our lives. It is also important to note once again, that all emotional elements are spiritual ones, because they deal with the condition of the heart, or in other words the very core of humanity. Joy is an emotion that strengthens our lives, and sorrow is one that can tear it down both spiritually and physically. I am one of those people who strongly believe that emotions have a lot to do with our physical health. To guard our joy is to guard our health. However, I am not naïve concerning our human weaknesses, tendencies, and carnal reactions to which all of us are susceptible; although, I would like to leave my readers with one simple tidbit of advice.
The key word in this particular proverb is heart. It is the common denominator in both phrases. Our heart is like a deep, deep, well of fresh spring water that is constantly feeding our lives with its contents. As long as the well remains clean, pure, and uncontaminated, it will continue to pour sweetness into our lives. But the moment we allow ourselves to start listening to negative influences, the water that we drink from can begin to taste somewhat sour and the result will certainly show on our faces. Therefore, in order to prevent this from happening, the best thing to do is to avoid these influences altogether. If you think someone is about to gossip, get angry, or put you in a difficult position of reaction, just kindly and quietly make an excuse to leave the room, not attend the meeting, not receive that call, or quickly change the subject. Just don’t allow yourself to go there. It is not worth it. Don’t let them contaminate you with their poison. Be on guard. Ask God to help you become aware and sensitive to see these dark clouds of spiritual negativity before the rain begins to fall, so that you can reach for your umbrella and find shelter for the well of your heart. So put on a happy face, and try your best to keep it.
Pastor LaVaughn
