Word Study Wednesday - Merry

Merry Christmas!

All the days of the afflicted are evil, but he who is of a merry heart has a continual feast. ~~Proverbs 15:15 NKJV

Merry in this scripture means good, pleasant, and agreeable.

On Christmas, most of us have a feast serving turkey, stuffing, candied yams, mashed potatoes, green beans casserole, dinner rolls and gravy. In south Texas, tamales are a Christmas tradition. Whatever the tradition, lots of good food usually is included in our family feasts. So we’re merry.

Gifts are part of our feasts. We enjoy sharing our blessings with our loved ones this time of year. I find it pleasant to watch my children open up their gifts hoping for the one they want. I find it good and pleasant to see their eyes light up when the wrapping is removed revealing the contents.

My prayer is that each of us is in a merry state this Christmas. I pray that we can learn to be as Paul stated, “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.” (Philippians 4:11-12 NKJV)

So whatever state we are in this season, let’s find our contentment in Christ. The Bible Readers Companion states in regard to Proverbs 15:15 “Our disposition rather than our circumstances is the key to enjoying life."

James E. Smith wrote in The Wisdom Literature and Psalms, “Solomon is advocating positive thinking. Though one is poor, he can still find life enjoyable if he cultivates a cheerful spirit. The implication is that the disposition is not dictated by outward circumstances. One who rejoices in his portion, however meager, has true riches.”

Therefore, whatever state—economically, emotionally, mentally, physically, socially, or spiritually—in Christ we can have a merry heart this Christmas and everyday we can enjoy the continual feast.

Merry Christmas!

Engrafted by His Grace--