Day 5: Be Cheerful

Yesterday we discussed the beginning of Proverbs 31:13-

'She seeks wool and flax...'

Today, we are going to discuss the last part.

'She worketh willingly with her hands.' (KJV)

The Amplified Bible states, "...And works with willing hands in delight." The NET Bible states, "...and she is pleased to work with her hands."

While reading this verse, the part that overwhelmed my heart was 'she works in DELIGHT'... 'she is PLEASED to work with her hands.'

She is cheerful. She is happy to work hard. 

I can picture this woman seeking the wool and flax and creating beautiful things for her family- and she isn't complaining the entire time she does it.

This gave me a guilty conscience, if I'm being honest.

I have been horrible about this in times past. Oh, I've done things for my family, but you best believe I complained before, during, and after. 

'Can't I sit down for 2 seconds????'
'Can't you do it yourself??'
'Are you serious?'
'I'm tired..'
'Hope you're happy.'

Makes me sick.

1 Thessalonians 5:16 says- "Be cheerful no matter what...." (The Message)

I read a quote on Pinterest that states:

"Next time you complain about the price of gas, stop and give thanks that you have a car. Next time you complain about a messy house, stop and be thankful you have a family to make the mess. Next time you complain about your boss, stop and give thanks that you have a job. Live each day with an attitude o gratitude and you will be on your way to a happier life.' [DaveWills.org]

God, help us! Help us to be cheerful in our circumstances. Give us attitudes of gratitude-- gratitude can shift your entire being! Thank You Lord for a family to take care of. Thank You for children that needs our help. Thank You for children that are healthy and breathing. Thank You for a husband that works so hard for us and trusts us to help him!

We must remember 2 Corinthians 9:7: "Each one of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give. You should not give if it makes you unhappy or if you feel forced to give. God loves those who are happy to give." (ERV) God loves a cheerful giver-- and Paul is not just talking about money here. God loves a cheerful giver of time, advice, love, prayers, etc. He wants us to be HAPPY.

God, help us to be cheerful today- cheerful when we are working with our hands- cheerful when we are helping others- cheerful when others are in need.