February 16th, 2022

Good Medicine

Proverbs 17:22 NIV

"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."

      As I sit down to write, I can't help but notice how much energy I have. So much, that it almost pained me to sit down and look at my computer screen instead of enjoying the beautiful weather outside. Today, it's gotten up to sixty degrees and not a cloud in site. I spent the morning baking bread and muffins with the windows opened. The pleasant aroma of fresh air and baked goods has filled my home and lifted my spirits. Then, my husband and I took our girls on an afternoon walk down our old county road to enjoy the sunshine and warm breeze. It's these warm, sunny days in the middle of February that recharge my soul and elevate my spirit. Signs that Spring is on the way strengthen my body and mind and help me to endure what bit of Winter lies ahead.

      Like the way the beauty of the world reawakening after a long, cold slumber, nourishes and strengthens my soul, there are things in this world that will crush your soul. Situations like the loss of a loved one, a lay-off from a job, or a financial crisis can get into our minds and suck the life right out of us. Unlike the good medicine of joy that strengthens our spirits, trial and affliction can weaken our strength and get us down. When we allow our spirit to be weakened, we will never be able to live the life we were destined to live. However, when we turn to God in all situations, whether it's sunny and warm, or cold and icy, we will find comfort and strength because we know that he is in control of all things. That he has a plan for us, and his plan is for good (Jeremiah 29:11).

Are you living with a crushed spirit? Have you taken your medicine today?