Ten Rules for a Happy Day

For you are all children of the light and of the day; we don't belong to darkness and night. So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be sober. Night is the time for sleep and the time when people get drunk. But let us who live in the light think clearly, protected by the body armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation. For God decided to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. He died for us so that we can live with him forever, whether we are dead or alive at the time of his return. So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. (1 Thessalonians 5:5-11 NLV).

After reading this morning’s Scripture, it occurred to me that we have so much to be happy about. Yet, for many our practical experience is one of frustration and unhappiness. The following ten suggestions may be of help to you in applying the principles of experiencing happiness each day.

1. Today, I will not strike back. If someone is rude, if someone is impatient, if someone is unkind, I will not respond in a like manner.

2. Today, I will ask God to bless my “enemy”. If I come across someone who treats me harshly or unfairly, I will quietly ask GOD to bless that individual. I understand the "enemy" could be a family member, neighbor, co-worker or stranger.

3. Today, I will be careful about what I say. I will carefully choose and guard my words so that I will be certain that I do not spread gossip.

4. Today, I will go the extra mile. I will find ways to help share the burden of another person.

5. Today, I will forgive. I will forgive any hurts or injuries that come my way.

6. Today, I will do something nice for someone, but I will do it secretly. I will reach out anonymously and bless the life of another.

7. Today, I will treat others the way I want to be treated. I will practice the golden rule: "Do unto others as I would have them do unto me.”

8. Today, I will raise the spirits of someone who is discouraged. My smile, my words, my expression of support, can make the difference to someone who is wrestling with life. I will use those resources for their good.

9. Today, I will nurture my body. I will eat less; I will eat only healthy foods. I will thank God for my body.

10. Today, I will grow spiritually. I will spend a little more time in prayer today: I will begin reading something spiritual or inspirational today; I will find a quiet place, at some point during this day, and listen to God's voice!