The Choice Is Yours - In the Morning When I Rise

What is the secret to having a cheerful attitude even during hard times?

Trust in my unfailing love. Rejoice because I have rescued you. Sing to me because I am good to you. Let the heavens be glad, and the earth rejoice! Tell all the nations, “The LORD reigns!” Let the sea and everything in it shout praise! Give thanks to me, for I am good! Always be full of joy in me. I say it again—rejoice!

Psalm 13:5-6; 1 Chronicles 16:31-32, 34; Philippians 4:4

Lord Jesus, what can help me stay cheerful?

Be glad and rejoice in my unfailing love, for I have seen your troubles, and I care about the anguish of your soul. The humble will see me at work and be glad. Let all who seek my help be encouraged. I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!

Psalm 31:7; Psalm 69:32; John 15:9-11

What can I pray when I find my attitude becoming negative?

Praise the LORD! Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heaven! Praise him for his mighty works; praise his unequaled greatness! Let everything that breathes sing praises to the LORD! Praise the LORD!

Psalm 150:1-2, 6

Gratitude lifts up the soul. Meditating on God’s goodness and sovereign plan reminds us of his abundant grace and unfailing love for those who follow him. We cannot control what happens to us, but we can control how we respond to it. God’s Word affirms the power of gratitude and encourages us to watch for the ways God is working. What is a negative thought you’ve been dwelling on lately? (For example, “I’m not good enough.”) Can you reframe your thinking to rejoice in what God says about you?