Proverbs 25:20

The book of Proverbs gives us insights into so many different areas of life. The book gives us instruction on how to live our lives for God. Here is a proverb that gives us insight about a cheerful heart vs a sad heart:

Proverbs 25:20 (ESV)

Whoever sings songs to a heavy heart

is like one who takes off a garment on a cold day,

and like vinegar on soda.

Have you ever been in such a great mood that you just want to sing? But when you come across a person who is down in the dump, then what?  When this happens, you probably, like me, want to share your great day and feelings of joy with this down hearted individual. When we do that, as the above proverb indicates, to them it is like taking their warm coat taken away in winter or pouring vinegar on soda—useless. Being in a great mood is certainly something that should be shared. But even a great mood should come with some discernment. Solomon is certainly not telling us to avoid cheering others on when they are walking through the valley of the shadow of death (his father David told us that). But beware that when we cheer others on and they are in a dark spot of life, we should do so with discretion. Joy should be shared discriminately.   When we counsel others we need to be sensitive and empathetic to their needs.  Jesus didn't automatically start preaching hope and wonder and excitement to the women at the well. This lady had numerous men in her life and was shamed in her society.  Jesus started by meeting her needs - a proper relationship with a man who just talked to her.   We don't always want to led with a cheery message.