Being cheerful is a series of choices. This is obvious from the fact that the Bible commands us to be cheerful (Rom 12:8, NASB). We owe it to ourselves and to others to be cheerful. It lightens the dark despair in the recesses of our anxious minds. It is a characteristic of the optimism we believers are to express (Rom 12:12, Barclay). Cheerfulness is medicinal, giving us a sense of peace and well-being (Prov 17:22, NIV). Our focus shifts from the dreary darkness to the light breaking forth into the dark. We become stronger, more buoyant, happier. Others want to be around us (Prov 15:30, NIV). By focusing on that ray of light in the dark, we transmit it to others. For instance, instead of looking at the cost, cheerful giving focuses on the pleasure our giving brings to the Lord and the benefit others will receive (2 Cor 9:7, CSB with Acts 20:35).
To become more cheerful, we can talk cheerfully about cheerful topics. We can focus on the ray of light – to see the glass half-full (Rom 8:28). Remembering that our sovereign Lord is always with us and for us, we can look for what is positive. We can have a servant’s heart to want to build others up. In addition, we can increasingly seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit since He will influence us to be full of joy. Being joyful is a key trait of being saved (Acts 13:52).
Being cheerful is a gift to ourselves and others. By giving us a merry heart, being cheerful improves our health, can strengthen our faith, and encourages others. Surely this is a gift we can afford to give.
Instead of being timid, learn to be appropriately bold.