There is a giraffe in the woods behind my house or so my imagination sees. He peeps his head out of the woods in the afternoon when the sun is shining. I can just imagine that he is checking to make sure all is well. He has been a delight to see during this winter season. It brings a smile to my face to see him. Can you see him?
Small Things That Make Us Smile
It is amazing to think of the small things during the day that bring a smile or happy thought. We are so blessed by a God that loves us and cares for us. A beautiful tree in bloom, the sun sparkling off of the water, the birds chirping and beginning to build their nests are just a few of the things that bring a smile to my face.
Life Can Be Difficult
However, there are times that life is so difficult. The simple reminders of the beauty that God has to offer are not all we need. What are we to do to fill our hearts with joy during those hard times?
“Then the multitude rose up together against them; and the magistrates tore off their clothes and commanded them to be beaten with rods. And when they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to keep them securely. Having received such a charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.”
Acts 16:22-24 NKJV
https://www.bible.com/114/act.16.22-24.nkjv
What Can One Do?
Paul and Silas were arrested and accused of teaching customs that are unlawful for Romans. The magistrates tore off Paul and Silas’ clothes, had them beaten and demanded they be held securely. The jailor placed them in the depths of the prison with their feet shackled. What a nightmare! Naked, cold, conditions that I wouldn’t want to wish on anyone. The pain of being beaten would be awful, not to mention the rats and bugs and stench in the prison. What could one do to make this situation better?
“But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.”
Acts 16:25 NKJV
https://www.bible.com/114/act.16.25.nkjv
Pray and Sing Praises
Paul and Silas began to pray and sing praises to God. God was their focus and made their life worth all they had been through. They weren’t quiet about it either. Everyone was listening. What a testimony then and now! God worked through this situation and brought joy to the heart of many people.
Life Is a Challenge
Sometimes extremely hard. The Bible tells us to praise God and pray without ceasing. Others are watching to see our faith. We never know how many lives are changed by the prayer and praise we give to God. The small things, like the giraffe, just keeps us smiling from day to day. God blesses us so much!
Paula Wallace
