(The following is the May 13 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Acts 6 and pay close attention to verses 11-15.)

While looking out over our congregation, a former pastor once said, “Some of you look like you were weaned on sour pickles.” I suppose we didn’t look very joyful until his comment. In Acts 6, Stephen’s face was like the face of an angel when the Sanhedrin looked at him (v. 15). What a marvelous testimony to the presence of Christ. Isn’t that how it should be with each of us?

Unfortunately, we are not always consistent in reflecting Christ in our facial expressions. For example, how do you react if someone cuts you off in traffic? If you have a terrible experience with a product or service and file a complaint or seek a refund, what tone of voice do you use with the customer service agent, and how does your face reflect that tone? When you’re in a hurry but must wait in line, what unspoken words does your face still shout? Do your expressions reflect God’s presence when worshiping with his people? If you are in a fretful rush to get everyone in the family where they need to be, do family members see a joy-filled follower of Christ in you?

We can’t always expect to wear a pleasant smile because we deal with unpleasant matters. Still, we should want to live closer to Stephen’s angelic face side of the scale than the sour pickle extreme. We represent Christ wherever we go and whatever the circumstances. The state of our hearts shapes our faces for others to see. As billboards for Christ, we must be mindful of the unspoken messages we send with our expressions.

Next Step:
Stand in front of a mirror and quote a Bible verse or sing a song with your regular expression. Repeat it with an intentional smile on your face. Do you see the difference? Others will notice as well. The next time you talk on the phone, smile as you speak and witness the impact.