A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken (Proverbs 15:13 KJV)

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At the beginning of the year, I did mention that it is a year of preparation of the heart. We are mid-way into the year, and it is a time for a gentle reminder by re-visiting essential topics related to the heart. Today, we will examine the effects of joy in our hearts. Solomon said above a merry heart causes the face to be cheerful. However, sorrow in the heart breaks the spirit.

Joy influences every part of our lives.

Joy influences every part of our  lives. It shows up on our faces! Please think about the broad smiles that fill our faces when we are joyful? Also, think about what happens to our faces when sad, sorrowful, or even anxious. Moreover, the effects of joy on our lives go beyond facial expressions. Joy or its absence can affect the health of our bodies( Prov. 17:22). It can dampen our willingness to live, motivation, or even courage ( breaks the spirit). Therefore the Lord told us that His joy is our strength! 

Read more: Jealously guard the joy of the Lord

Meditate

What is a merry heart as described in our scripture above? What does the phrase “the spirit is broken “ mean?

Apply the Word

Jealously guard the joy of the Lord in your heart. It should be evident why Satan sometimes first attacks our joy or peace before he attacks anything else, such as our families or even finances. He knows once we lose our joy or become anxious, we become spiritually vulnerable. Therefore, rejoice in the Lord always. And again, I say rejoice! (Phil 4:4).

Pray

Ask the Lord to help you protect your heart from losing your joy. 

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