What does the Apostle Paul declare every Christian to be?

2 Corinthians 3:2, 3.

In what way are we to duplicate the work Jesus came to earth to do?

John 17:18.

Note: Jesus came to reveal the Father’s love to a world that knew Him not. As His children, we are called to be representatives of Christ, doing the same work He did in revealing the true character of God’s tender, pitying love for fallen human beings.

As representatives of the Lord Jesus, what picture should we give of life in God’s service?

Psalms 5:11

1 Peter 1:8.

Note: Christians, who gather up gloom and sadness to their souls, murmuring and complaining, are giving others a false representation of God and the Christian life. They give the impression that God is not pleased to have His people happy, and thus they bear false witness concerning God.

What is the work of Satan in regard to the character of God?

John 8:44.

Note: It is Satan’s studied purpose to misrepresent the character of God as One who lacks compassion and pity. He loves to lead men and women to mistrust God and look upon Him as harsh and unforgiving. Satan tries to make the Christian life appear to be one of gloom, difficulty and toil. If this is the attitude we project to others, we are supporting Satan’s misrepresentations.

In reviewing our past lives, on what should we focus?

Psalms 105:3, 5

What practical benefit is promised as a result of being happy?

Proverbs 17:22

Note: It is not wise, nor beneficial to gather to mind all the unpleasant recollections of the past- its sins and disappointments- to talk of them and mourn over them until life is filled with gloom and discouragement. Thank God for the bright pictures of His care and solicitude for you. Group together the blessed assurance of His love and look upon them often.

Is there any logical reason for us to doubt the Father’s love?

Romans 8:31, 32

When tempted by Satan to doubt God’s goodness, what should be our defense?

Isaiah 61:10

Philippians 4:4

Note: When Satan attempts to discourage you, breathe not a word of doubt or darkness. Every expression of doubt strengthens Satan’s temptation and separates you from the angels of God assigned to minister to you. If you talk out your gloomy feelings, every word expressed will not only react upon yourself, but will act as seed to germinate and bear fruits in our lives. When you take the hand of a friend, let praise to God be on your lips and joy be in your heart. Angels are listening to hear what report you give to the world regarding your heavenly Master.

Can we avoid influencing others whether for good or evil?

Romans 14:7

Note: By our unconscious influence others may be encouraged and strengthened or they may be discouraged and repelled from Jesus and His truth.

What was Jesus’ personality like when He was on earth?

Isaiah 53:3, 4

Note: It is often said that Jesus wept but was never known to smile. He is spoken of as a “man of sorrows and acquainted with grief”. And this is true, for He opened His heart to all of human woe. But though His life was shadowed with care and pain and self-denial, He was neither gloomy nor discouraged. His face did not wear an expression of grief or dissatisfaction, but always showed peaceful serenity. Wherever He went, He carried with Him rest and peace, joy and gladness.

If we are like Jesus, will our lives mirror His in this regard?

Isaiah 26:3

Psalms 119:165

Note: The religion of Jesus gives peace like a river. It does not quench the light of joy; it does not restrain cheerfulness nor cloud the sunny, smiling face. Christ came not to be ministered to, but to minister in joy; and when His love reigns in the heart, we shall be like Him.

How can we have and maintain this attitude of quiet, confident joy?

Proverbs 3:5, 6

Can we expect, then, no trials or difficulties in the Christian life?

John 16:33

Note: The Lord does not deceive us. He does not say, “Fear not; there are not dangers in your path.” He knows the Christian l