A warm, smiling face reveals a joy-filled heart.

Proverbs 15:3

I love this version of Proverbs 15:3. When I read it, I think of children smiling, genuinely and eagerly, because there is so much natural joy in their hearts. Children love to play and laugh and have fun. Smiling is a big part of that.

As a lay children’s minister for many years, I taught God’s Word in a fun-filled way. I firmly believed that if a child was having fun, the child would learn God’s Word quicker and also know that God is a God of joy and fun. We did puppet shows and dressed up in costumes to act out stories in the Bible. Yes, we acted silly and goofy – all to get the children to be happy and excited about our great God.

For me, smiling is a perfect way to show my faith and my thankful, joy-filled heart. If I am smiling, that means that I have put my faith in God to help me to have a successful day and overcome any obstacles that try to block my progress. And, I think that smiling is a sign of strength. No matter how much pressure may be brought on me, smiling means that I am at peace, having put my trust in God. Many people believe that smiling and joyfulness only come after our lives are perfect but that is not true. The Bible says that the joy of the Lord is our strength to be overcomers – not that joy only comes afterward we overcome. (Nehemiah 8:10)

Smiling to others also encourages others to smile too and can be a blessing to them. Do you smile to and with your children? If they see you model smiling, they will be sure to follow in your footsteps.

It has been said that a smile is the prettiest thing that you can wear! What is the alternative? The upside down smile is a frown.