C.S Lewis once said, “It is a Christian duty for everyone to be as happy as he can.” It’s actually what we are called and made to be; to be joyful, cheerful and abundantly happy.
Jesus said it this way, “I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance, to the full, till it overflows (John 10:10 AMP).
Cheerfulness and joy are what God wants to give us, and it’s in walking in close relationship with Him that any sorrow, bitterness or anger is exchanged for His joy. I’ve discovered that even in the midst of depressing situations and sadness that I can know His comfort and abiding joy and cheerfulness. That He does in fact turn our mourning into dancing, and our sorrow into joy as we turn and receive from heaven all we need and desire. (Psalm 30:11)
However some things can block the exchange between God and us, and the receiving of this joy and cheerfulness. One of those “blockers” is un-forgiveness, which causes people to become angry and bitter. Un-forgiveness steals people’s good cheer and results in illness, relationship breakdowns, strife and turning everything sour and horrible.
God however has a solution to this “blocker” of heavenly joy. He advises us to, “Be kind to one another, tender-hearted and gentle, forgiving one another as He for Christ’s sake has forgiven you.”
If you are struggling physically and emotionally, or you just feel awful inside all the time, take a look in the mirror and examine your heart and attitudes. Is there an angry, unforgiving person looking back at you? If so, let go of the weight of anger and un-forgiveness and choose for your own sake and the people close to you to walk in forgiveness so that your heart and life can be filled with joy and good cheer.
“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” (Mark 11:25)
“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times? “Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” (Matthew 18:21-22)
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.” (1 Corinthians 13:4-6)
Prayer: Lord please reveal to me if I have un-forgiveness in my heart and help me to then forgive and let go of any grievances I may have towards others. Today I turn to you and receive your joy and a heart that is overflowing with cheerfulness. In Jesus name Amen.
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