May 2
Daily Cheer for All the YearGod loveth a cheerful giver.—II COR. ix, 7.
Cheerfulnesse
Doth expresse
A settled, pious mynde,
Which is not prone to grudging,
From murmuring refined.
ANNE COLLINS.
If there is one element in the human mind or heart that we should be devoutly thankful for, it is a cheerful, happy disposition. To carry the sunshine with us means a great deal. It is not merely a boon to you or to me personally, but to all with whom we associate. It reaches far beyond the limit of to-day's experience or labor, far into eternity. "God loveth a cheerful giver" does not necessarily imply the giver of money merely, but as truly applies to the willing, self-sacrificing spirit, that fain would succor all in distress, mentally or physically. That would give ready sympathy; pour balm on aching hearts; lend a helping hand cheerfully, not grudgingly, but in a genial way that makes the one you rescue, perhaps, feel that there really is some one that forgets self gladly, and would equally assist to make the rough places in life smooth. To carry a cheerful face, and speak brave, encouraging words, often costs great effort. God knows and sees each one's trials, and is ever ready to brighten the way for each struggling one. It is possible for all to be cheerful, and the greater the effort the greater the victory gained.
L. E. N.