A Cheerful Countenance Prov. 15:13 CLICK TITLE FOR AUDIO
We all need a cheerful countenance that comes forth from a cheerful heart. There is plenty of anger in the world, there is plenty of foolishness in the world. We don’t need the world’s anger and we don’t need the world’s mirth. We need heart’s that are joyful and countenances that are cheerful. Prov 15:13 – a merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance
You get a merry heart and a cheerful countenance from:
The Lord’s forgiveness – Matt 9:12 – Son, be of good cheer; they sins be forgiven thee. If you can think of no other reason to be cheerful, you ought to be cheerful that you will never face your sins in eternity. You are forgiven!!
The Lord’s presence – Matt 14:27 – be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. There are times when we are so afraid because we magnify the scary circumstances around us. Remember that the Lord is with you and nothing is going to happen to you without him being there to assist you and strengthen you.
The Lord’s peace – Jn 16:33 – … that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. The news in the world is always bad. God’s good news is never reported. We have peace because no matter how bad things get in the world, the Lord has overcome the world. We’re getting out.
The Lord’s purpose – Acts 23:11 – Paul testified in Jerusalem and he would testify in Rome – his purpose wasn’t over yet. God still has something for you to do so be of good cheer.
The Lord’s protection – Acts 27:22-25 36 – the Lord saved their lives on the shipwreck although everything else was a total loss. You can honestly say, “It could be worse.” You may have really suffered a loss but it could be worse. You are still here, after all.
The Lord’s provision – 2 Cor 9:7 – God loveth a cheerful giver. Thank God you have enough that you have something to give. And thank God that you have seen the Lord’s provision to be sufficient in your life.
Conclusion: we must remember not to murmur and complain. Our countenances should reveal merry hearts within. The world doesn’t have a merry heart. They need to see what one looks like on a Christian. They need to see that in your countenance.