27 Jul: The Smile God Gives

A cheerful heart is good medicine. Proverbs 17:22

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 15:13–15, 30

When Marcia goes out, she makes it a point to offer a smile to the people she meets. It’s her quiet way of reaching out to anyone who might need a moment of kindness. Most days, people respond with a sincere smile of their own. But during a season when she had to wear a facemask, she realized her smile was hidden. They can’t see my mouth anymore, she thought. Still, I won’t stop trying. Maybe they’ll notice it in my eyes.

Science actually supports that thought. The muscles that lift the corners of the mouth and the ones that cause the eyes to gently crease often work together. This kind of expression is known as a Duchenne smile—a smile that shows up in the eyes as much as the mouth.

Scripture reminds us that “light in a messenger’s eyes brings joy to the heart” and “a cheerful heart is good medicine” (Proverbs 15:30; 17:22). For God’s children, joy often rises from the deep, Spirit‑given gladness within us. It’s a gift from God that naturally flows outward—encouraging those who feel weighed down or offering hope to people searching for direction. And even in seasons of hardship, that God‑given joy can still shine through.

When life feels dim, choose joy. Let your smile—whether seen on your face or reflected in your eyes—be a small window of hope that shows God’s love and the light of His presence in your life.

By:  Eliana Morell

Go deeper on: The Smile God Gives

Reflect & Pray

What else does the Bible teach us about the joy found in God? How does inner joy contribute to a healthy mind, body, and spirit?

The joy You provide is my strength, dear God. Help me to be a messenger of Your love to others.