Our attitude and our perspective make a difference in how we live. It is actually becomes a matter of faith and an outpouring of our salvation. Solomon sets forth the striking contrast: A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones (Proverbs 17.22). The cheerful heart focuses on the Lord our God and His gracious working of salvation. It has joy in knowing we have been lifted out of the darkness of sin and cleansed by the shed blood of Jesus Christ; it focuses on being given new life and indwelt by the Spirit of God; it longs for the truth of God’s Word; it is comforted in being adopted into God’s eternal family, protected and sustained; it relishes the fullness of His blessings; it enjoys the fellowship of the saints and the work of the church. It has hope, not only in this life but in the fulfillment of God’s promises for eternity. The cheerful heart holds positive conversations, encourages others, and honors the Lord; it shares the Gospel of salvation and builds others up. Though life circumstances are difficult, wearying, or sad, and trials become heavy and grim, the cheerful heart holds onto truth, puts the situations of life in perspective, and looks ahead to God’s ultimate victory.
In contrast, the crushed spirit is afflicted and broken by sin, not knowing the joy of forgiveness; it lingers in grief and despair over loss; its conversation increases pain, bringing discouragement; it worries over what it cannot control, its focus is on self and selfishness, on pride and the world’s offering; it abandons God and His Word. The heart having the right focus is likened to medicine for the body, for it keeps us going regardless of circumstances. In contrast, the crushed spirit can sicken, immobilize, and render one hopeless. This is a matter of perspective, of focus, of choice – determining direction of life and relationship with the Savior. If the bones are weary, it is time for examination and refocusing on the Lord and the truth of Scripture.
Having a cheerful heart – we have much to be thankful for –
Terry
