I love to encourage people and to see their happy faces… and there is something special about a child’s open face, full of delight and joy!

The word “winsome” came to mind this week and just thinking about it made me smile. It carries a sense of brightness and cheerfulness. A person who is winsome draws smiles from others.

I think it has a lot to do with keeping a positive attitude, too. My mom was such a good example of that. Always encouraging, helping us to see things from better perspectives. Showing a good mood or disposition can be challenging! We choose what frame of mind we want to dwell on, whatever is going on, and that can be easier at some times than others… Oh, that we all could be more winsome in our day-to-day encounters!

Cheerful or happy hearts and dispositions need to be cultivated. It’s something that I still struggle with sometimes. When the thoughts and worries won’t quit whirling around and around in my head, I have to keep looking for the good and working on having a better perspective. Lots of prayer, too! Maybe you have similar challenges. The book of Proverbs gives us some wisdom for attitude adjustments and outlook:

“A cheerful disposition is good for your health…”
or in other words, “A cheerful heart is good medicine…” Proverbs 17:22a

I also love this one, “…the cheerful heart has a continual feast” (Proverbs 15:15b). Don’t you just love that thought?! Nurturing a cheerful heart brings a feast for the soul, not just for ourselves but for everyone we extend that welcome cheer to.

How can we nurture a deep-down happy or positive heart? We can do this by keeping ourselves fueled and connected to God. Tending that time with God, prayer, quiet moments, fellowship and sharing with others we value, and intentional focus on positives and thanks are some things that can help. What are some things that work for you?

Be encouraged! Praying that these thoughts will brighten your days and ease your hearts.

Charlotte-Anne Allen 7/15/2023