Here’s what God says about cheerful hearts, cheering others up, and what brings real cheer.
“Every day is a terrible day for a miserable person, but a cheerful heart has a continual feast” (Proverbs 15:15).
Have you ever been grumpy for a few days in row?
How do you react to everything that happens?
Talk about how your days go when you’re in a great mood.
“We encourage you, brothers and sisters, to instruct those who are not living right, cheer up those who are discouraged, help the weak, and be patient with everyone” (1 Thessalonians 5:14).
Are there any people in your life who seem discouraged lately?
How can you cheer them up?
What if they are discouraged because of something really serious, like a death in their family? How can you gently encourage them and support them?
“Jesus got into a boat, crossed the sea, and came to his own city. Some people brought him a paralyzed man on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man, ‘Cheer up, friend! Your sins are forgiven’” (Matthew 9:1,2).
When you listened to that passage, what did you think would follow the words, “Cheer up, friend!”?
Was being paralyzed that man’s biggest problem? If not, what was his biggest problem?
Dear Jesus, open our eyes to see when our friends or family are sad and need encouragement. Help us remember that the most important thing that will cheer people up is telling them that you have forgiven them. Help us bring them the joy that comes from being loved by you. Amen.
