“All the days of the afflicted are evil, but the cheerful of heart has a continual feast.” (Proverbs 15:15 ESV).
This biblical proverb teaches the importance that attitude has on perception. If someone is “afflicted,” meaning disheartened or discouraged, then even a sunny day appears stormy to them. But even on the darkest of days the one with a “cheerful” heart looks for a rainbow.
Yet how do we develop and maintain a cheerful heart? David knew something about this. When circumstances turned from bad to worse around him, the Bible says that he “encouraged himself in the Lord” (1 Sam. 30:6). His circumstances didn’t immediately change, but his heart did. And when our heart changes, we see possibilities rather than limitations.
Is your life full of trouble or like a continual feast? Ask the Lord to examine your heart. Perhaps it’s more a matter of your heart than your circumstances.
PRAYER: Lord, regardless of today’s circumstances, help us to keep our hearts set on You. For life is like a roller coaster of ups and downs, but You are a firm foundation that never changes. Fill us afresh with Your Spirit and make our hearts beat with the joy of the Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.