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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: A friend of mine told me that I need to work on being more positive, but I honestly find it hard when I look at the state of the world with all of its problems and issues. Whether it is an individual or a nation, there is so much to be negative about. How can a person learn to be more cheerful? – P.I.

A: Joseph Haydn, a great classical composer, was once asked why his church music was so cheerful. He replied, “When I think upon God, my heart is so full of joy that the notes leap, as it were, from my pen, and since God has given me a cheerful heart, I serve Him with a cheerful spirit.”

Haydn had discovered the secret to lasting joy: “I think upon God.” Putting all our focus on our current situation in life won’t bring us lasting joy. It might even make us feel angry. But when we think on God and turn our minds and hearts to God’s power and His love for us, we can’t help but be joyful. The Apostle Paul said, “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2, NKJV). How different life would be if people were to do this every day.

Happy are those who have learned the secret of being content with whatever life brings and learn to rejoice in the simple and beautiful things around them. It doesn’t mean that we ignore reality, but to have a grateful heart that emphasizes God’s power in our lives. People are told that to be happy, all they have to do is think “happy thoughts”; such thoughts might bring cheer, but they never change us. It is the power of God’s Word that will change us. “He who heeds the word wisely will find good … happy is he” (Proverbs 16:20, NKJV).

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

©2025 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

(c)2025 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.