I love to smile. After all, smiling actually requires less muscle than frowning (call me lazy). 🙂
But have you ever smiled at someone just to have them look away? I have lived in a couple different areas of the United States and I have to admit, this happens everywhere.
There are many reasons someone may “diss” a smile. Whatever their reason, it can have the affect of making us regret the effort.
I agree, not every situation is appropriate to expect a smile. But what about the cases when a smile is not out of line, not awkward, and even arguably appropriate?
Last week we had a boost of heat. I loved that it seemed to extend summer. Yet as the weather inevitably turns to Autumn, I am reminded of the different seasons of our lives.
What’s keeping you from living the abundant life Jesus promises? Most often, it’s failure to trust the One offering such a profound gift. We love God, but like the elephant in the room, we don’t want to admit that we cling to something else for our security.
Trust is the action that evidences our belief. First sign we trust God is letting go of what we are currently holding on to that is preventing us from receiving His promises.
And you might not realize what you’re holding onto. Here’s some examples: money, power, prestige, popularity, tradition, possessions, worldly reputation, bitterness, regret, martyrdom, shame, condemnation, and guilt.
The Bible says the things of this world are like a vapor; vanity. Like a mirage, they will disappear as soon as we try to grasp them. In that way, worldly pursuits provide us no lasting support or comfort (Ecclesiastes 1:2). And Jesus acknowledges that the weight of this world is heavy, but He wants to take that weight and exchange it for a lighter load (Matthew 11:28-29). Let Him.
Only when we let go of what we cling to in lieu of God will we have our hands free to receive all that God has planned for us. Take that step of faith today.
You may have wrestled with the notion of being good enough for God. It may come as a relief to learn that salvation is not about what you do for God but who you are to God. God wants everyone to be saved (2 Peter 3:9). He made the process of salvation something we don’t have to earn. It is simply a matter of recognizing and accepting the most expensive gift you’ll ever be offered.
Take a moment to enjoy this 3 1/2 minute video about the gift that means everything.
We made the decision to unplug the television. It’s not something my husband and I had considered before. But it’s done. And it feels so good. Continue reading →
Life happens. Before we know it, the opportunities for developing the deep relationships we want with our children may pass us by. We may fear looking back with regret and wishing, “If only I had taken the time to do [this] or [that] with my child.”
I love to smile. After all, smiling actually requires less muscle than frowning (call me lazy). 🙂
