I was just speaking to my sister Allison, and she sounded very upbeat, then she informed me it was Friday, and she had a very hectic week. Hmm, I wonder if any of us can relate? It certainly feels good to have the weekend just around the corner. My husband calls this his Friday collapse. Yes, he will be on the sofa with the fireplace stoked.

" Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever."  {Psalm 136:1}

Just because it is cold outside, doesn't mean that we can't enjoy the warmth that this picture brings. There are multiple reports done on the effectiveness of good thoughts on the mind, and on our bodies. The Bible says, " A cheerful or joyful heart is good medicine { Proverbs 17:22} but a broken spirit dries up the bones." This does not mean that we should be fake or untrue to our feelings. No one likes it when another is faking "happy". It tends to come out more like sarcasm, and that doesn't help anyone, especially the person doing it.

"The joy of the Lord is our strength" [Nehemiah 8:10]

Worship and praise to God gives us real joy that can bring us through the most difficult situations. Knowing that Our King, Redeemer and Lover of our souls is always for us can cause us to relax! Yes really, you can relax and enjoy the life God has given you when you keep your eyes fixed on Jesus. I know a song for each one of these verses, and if you think about it, you may know them as well. Whether you do or not, know that when we are "In Christ" as I shared yesterday, you are safe in a way that far exceeds the definition in Websters.  Blessings and grace to you this weekend!