I woke up the other morning feel tired and out-of-sorts. I’d worked too many hours the day before, had slept wrong on my neck, and had a headache besides. How was going to get any sensible writing done? I hoped I wasn’t going to be grumpy all day.

Then I opened my e-mail box and found a message from one of my readers that ended with the verse of scripture: “A Merry heart is good medicine.” Proverbs 17:22. That particular verse is one of my favorites, and I was thankful for the reminder to put on a happy face and look for something to laugh, or at least smile, about.

I know my Amish friends enjoy humor, because every time my husband and I have been invited to an Amish home for supper, we’ve enjoyed the light banter, joke telling, and laughter that accompanied the meal.

What brings a smile to your face or causes you to laugh? A joyful heart is pleasing to the Lord, and it’s an added benefit to know that it’s good medicine for us, too. My prayer for today is that, despite fatigue or pain, I’ll be reminded to look at the brighter side of life and thank God for the gift of laughter.

When my husband and I were visiting a church in our neighborhood several weeks ago, the pastor made the comment that it’s a privilege to pray, and that praying for ourselves is not being selfish. While it’s good to pray for others, each of us has special needs, and God wants us to bring our needs, as well as our wants, to Him.

In I Thessalonians 5:17 we are told to pray without ceasing. Although some of our prayers might not be answered exactly the way we would like, God answers every prayer according to His will. We should never quit praying, because there is power in prayer, and each time we pray, our faith will be strengthened.

Isn’t it great to know that we can call on God any time, day or night? He’s always waiting to hear from us, and He will answer our prayers in His own perfect timing, according to His will.

Heavenly Father: When I pray, help me remember to thank You in advance for all that You do. Amen.

When my husband and I visited the Hawaiian Island of Kauai a few months ago, I was amazed at all the beautiful sights there were to see. . .gorgeous sunsets reflecting on the water each morning; sparkling waterfalls cascading over hillsides; soft, sandy beaches with pretty shells and lots of unusual coral; leafy, green vegetation; flowers in bold and muted colors; colorful birds with melodious songs; and so much more. All that tropical beauty gave us a glimpse of what the Garden of Eden must have been like — a little taste of Paradise.

God created the earth and everything in it for our enjoyment. Like a warm fire at the end of the day, the presence of God surrounds me. I can see Him in the flowers, trees, birds, sunsets, and all the beauty that He’s created. Look around. . . God has some wonderful blessings in store for you today. Enjoy!