How to Be One of the “Happy People”

How to Jump-Start Your Day with God’s Word

This is the day that the Lord has made;

let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalm 118:24 (ESV)

Over the last couple weeks, we have discussed many aspects of how our thoughts affect our lives. I’m so proud that you have stuck with this challenge because it’s truly going to change your life for the better.

So, today I want to approach the subject from a slightly different perspective. If someone told you there was a way to be in a good mood every day, I’m sure you would love to hear the secret, wouldn’t you?

I spent years being controlled by a wide range of moods, believing I had no choice in how I felt. I was jealous of all the “happy people.” I used to wonder, How do they do it? Then I finally learned that our mind, mouth, moods, and attitudes are all intricately connected.

First you think, and then your thoughts turn into words that you speak, and the two of them together affect you emotionally and turn into moods and attitudes. The truth is this: Although we don’t always have the power to change every unpleasant circumstance in our lives, we do have the power to change our outlook.

Simply put, enjoying life begins with the thoughts you choose to think. Yes, it is that simple! No matter what is going on in your life today, if you will choose happy, hope-filled thoughts based on God’s Word, you will feel happier. Our thoughts are intricately connected to our feelings, so if we want to feel better, we need to think better.

I like to use the illustration of putting gas in a car. If we put the correct fuel in our automobile, it will run well. But if we use the wrong fuel, it may not run at all. In the same way, when we choose our thoughts carefully, our quality of life will improve in amazing ways!

Take a moment to reflect. What types of things have you been mentally focusing on? How do these thoughts connect to the way you feel emotionally and even physically? You see, nothing good comes from thinking critical, negative thoughts, but something good always comes when we think according to God’s plan for our life.

Walk It Out: Over the course of this 30-day challenge, I’ve given you plenty of things to write down…to remember…to say out loud. And today, I’d like to add a few more to your list.

What we think and say have such a powerful impact on our day. Write down or copy the list below. Each morning, meditate and speak out these promises from God’s Word to help jump-start your day. Remember, when you set your mind in an uplifting direction—full of godly, faith-filled thoughts—it will have a good effect on your entire day.

“This is the day God has made, and I am going to enjoy it!” (Psalm 118:24)

“Today, I am strong and energetic.” (Isaiah 40:28-31)

“I have favor with God and man everywhere I go.” (Luke 2:52)

“I am thankful for all that God has done for me.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

“God is working on my problems, and I can wait patiently because His timing is perfect.” (Psalm 31:15, 37:7, 46:1)

“I can handle whatever comes my way today through Christ Who is my strength.” (Philippians 4:13)

“Everything I lay my hand to prospers and succeeds.” (Deuteronomy 30:19; Joshua 1:8)

“I enjoy being a blessing to others.” (1 Timothy 6:18)