“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8
Quite some time ago I got this cute little Mary Engelbreit note pad for Christmas. She is an artist that does great designs and there was the cutest Santa on the note pad with the words “Some Spread Happiness Wherever They Go”. I just loved it- not only for the artwork but for the sentiment, too. I thought- what an awesome idea. What a neat thing to be known for. If only I could be like that.
A secular quote came my way and got me to thinking. “Happiness is largely an attitude of mind of viewing life from the right angle.” Dale Carnegie. Doesn’t God give us the right angle of viewing life? And it is the thoughts of the mind that changes your perspective that changes your attitude and opens your heart. Here are some other Godly viewpoints:
Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone- especially to those in the family of faith. Galatians 6:10
I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. Ecclesiastes 3:12
And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. Hebrews 13:6.
There’s also something else about doing good, being grateful, and seeing happiness. It’s what it does to you. You actually feel better. Your spirit is lifted. Your happiness is somehow more full and more meaningful and served a purpose. It may not be that we can master this all the time, but it is something to strive for, and well worth it when, with God’s help, we accomplish it.
Consider this thought:
“You will become the equivalent of an ice cream truck in your world. An ice cream truck used to visit my childhood neighborhood. When I heard the clanking music of the truck, I knew what to do. I wasn’t alone. Kids came from everywhere. The pedaled their bikes or just ran like crazy. The ice cream truck was in the neighborhood. Be that ice cream truck. Be the person the people are glad to see. And see if you aren’t the one smiling the most.”[1]
Dear Jesus,
Help me to put Your Word in my heart so that I may have a Godly perspective on doing life with others. Help me to do good , seek the best for others, have a grateful heart always, and to share a little bit of happiness wherever I go.
Amen.
1] Max Lucado. You Can Count on God. 365 Devotions