by Smiling is a powerful act that radiates joy, warmth, and kindness. It lifts our spirits and brightens the lives of those around us. The Bible has much to say about joy, gladness, and the reasons why we should smile.
As followers of Christ, we are called to spread joy and live a life of gratitude, even in the midst of trials. Below are Bible verses that touch on smiling, joy, and contentment, accompanied by commentary to help you reflect on how these scriptures encourage us to smile and share joy with others.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Positivity
Bible Verses About Smiling
Proverbs 17:22
“A happy heart is good medicine and a joyful mind causes healing, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.”
Commentary: A joyful heart has the power to heal both physically and emotionally. This verse emphasizes the health benefits of a positive attitude and the negative effects of sadness or despair. Smiling, which often reflects inner joy, can uplift your spirit and the spirits of those around you. A joyful person not only feels better themselves but also becomes a source of encouragement for others.
Psalm 126:2
“Then our mouth was filled with laughter and our tongue with joyful shouting; then they said among the nations, ‘The Lord has done great things for them.’
Commentary: This verse highlights the joy that comes when we recognize the great things God has done for us. Smiling and laughter are natural reactions to experiencing God’s blessings. When we reflect on His goodness, our mouths are filled with laughter and joy. This joy is not only for us but also becomes a testimony to others about God’s faithfulness.
Proverbs 15:13
“A heart full of joy and goodness makes a cheerful face, but when a heart is full of sadness, the spirit is crushed.”
Commentary: The condition of the heart is reflected on the face. When we have joy in our hearts, it shows in a cheerful countenance—a smile. However, when our hearts are heavy with sadness, it’s hard to hide the impact it has on our spirit. This verse reminds us of the importance of cultivating a heart filled with joy and gratitude, as it radiates outward to others.
Nehemiah 8:10
“Then Ezra said to them, ‘Go your way. Eat the rich festival food, drink the sweet drink, and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be worried, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and your stronghold.'”
Commentary: Nehemiah reminds the people that the joy of the Lord is their strength. Smiling in the midst of trials is not simply an outward expression but a reflection of an inner strength that comes from God. When we focus on God’s goodness and celebrate His blessings, we can experience joy that sustains us through difficult times.
Psalm 34:5
“They looked to Him and were radiant; their faces will never blush in shame or confusion.”
Commentary: This verse describes the transformation that occurs when we look to God. When we focus on Him, our faces reflect the joy and confidence we receive from His presence. Smiling is a natural response to the radiance of God’s goodness in our lives, and it serves as a testament that we are not ashamed but filled with His peace and assurance.
Psalm 118:24
“This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Commentary: Every day is a gift from God, and this verse encourages us to rejoice in that gift. Smiling is a simple yet powerful way to express our gratitude for the life and opportunities God gives us each day. Even on challenging days, we can choose to smile, trusting that God is in control and has a purpose for everything.
Isaiah 12:3
“Therefore with joy you will draw water from the springs of salvation.”
Commentary: The image of drawing water from springs of salvation evokes feelings of refreshment and life. Smiling is an outward sign of the joy we experience when we remember that we are saved and loved by God. This verse reminds us that joy is not just a feeling but an ongoing source of spiritual nourishment.
Psalm 16:11
“You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore.”
Commentary: True joy comes from being in God’s presence. When we walk with God and follow His path, we experience a fullness of joy that nothing else can provide. Smiling becomes a natural response to being in relationship with the One who offers eternal pleasures and joy beyond measure.
Proverbs 12:25
“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, but a good (encouraging) word makes it glad.”
Commentary: Anxiety and worry can weigh down our hearts, robbing us of joy. But the power of an encouraging word can lift our spirits and bring a smile to our faces. This verse emphasizes the importance of speaking life-giving words to others, words that can bring joy and healing to those who are burdened.
Psalm 4:7
“You have put joy in my heart, more than when their grain and new wine abound.”
Commentary: This verse highlights the difference between temporary, material happiness and the lasting joy that comes from God. Smiling out of gratitude for the spiritual blessings we receive surpasses the fleeting pleasure of worldly wealth. God’s joy is more fulfilling than any abundance of earthly goods.
Philippians 4:4
“Rejoice in the Lord always [delight, take pleasure in Him]; again I will say, rejoice!”
Commentary: The apostle Paul encourages believers to rejoice always, regardless of circumstances. Smiling becomes a way to express our continual joy in the Lord. This joy is not dependent on external factors but is rooted in our relationship with God. No matter what we face, we can smile knowing that God is with us and for us.
James 5:13
“Is anyone among you suffering? Then he must pray. Is anyone joyful? He is to sing praises [to God].”
Commentary: James calls us to different responses depending on our circumstances. When we are joyful, the natural response is to praise God. Smiling and rejoicing are ways we can outwardly show our gratitude and joy in God’s blessings. This verse reminds us to stay connected to God, whether in suffering or joy.
John 15:11
“I have told you these things so that My joy and delight may be in you, and that your joy may be made full and complete and overflowing.”
Commentary: Jesus wants us to experience complete and overflowing joy. Smiling can be a visible expression of the fullness of joy that He offers us. When we live in alignment with His teachings, we can experience a deep and abiding joy that permeates every aspect of our lives. This joy is not temporary, but eternal and ever-growing.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Celebration
Psalm 28:7
“The Lord is my strength and my [impenetrable] shield; My heart trusts with unwavering confidence in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart greatly rejoices, and with my song I shall thank Him and praise Him.”
Commentary: Trusting in God leads to joy and rejoicing. When we know that God is our strength and shield, we can smile with confidence, knowing that we are secure in His care. Smiling becomes an expression of our gratitude for His protection and provision, even in the face of adversity.
Romans 12:12
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
Commentary: This verse encourages us to rejoice in hope, even when facing difficulties. Smiling can be a declaration of our hope in God’s promises. It reflects a heart that chooses joy, even in trials, because of the hope we have in Christ. Patience and prayer go hand in hand with rejoicing, helping us endure with grace.
Ecclesiastes 9:7
“Go, eat your bread with joy and drink your wine with a happy heart, for God has already approved your works.”
Commentary: This verse encourages us to enjoy the simple pleasures of life with a happy heart. Smiling is a natural response to the joy and contentment we find in God’s approval. As we live according to His will, we can experience the peace and joy that come from knowing we are in right standing with Him.
Luke 6:21
“Blessed [joyful, nourished by God’s goodness] are you who hunger now, for you will be [completely] satisfied. Blessed [forgiven, refreshed by God’s grace] are you who weep now, for you will laugh [when the burden of sin is lifted].”
Commentary: Jesus promises that those who weep now will one day laugh. Smiling is a sign of the joy that is coming, even in the midst of sorrow. This verse offers hope that our present suffering will not last forever. God’s grace will refresh and restore us, bringing joy and laughter in His perfect time.
Job 8:21
“He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with joyful shouting.”
Commentary: This verse expresses the hope that God will restore joy to those who are suffering. Smiling is an expression of the hope that even in difficult times, God is at work and will bring us to a place of joy again. We can look forward to the day when our sorrow will turn to laughter.
Psalm 5:11
“But let all who take refuge and put their trust in You rejoice, Let them ever sing for joy; Because You cover and shelter them, Let those who love Your name be joyful and exult in You.”
Commentary: Those who trust in God are called to rejoice and sing for joy. Smiling reflects the joy and confidence we have in God’s protection and care. This verse encourages us to find our refuge in God, and in doing so, to experience the joy that comes from knowing we are safe and secure in Him.
1 Peter 1:8
“Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and though you do not even see Him now, you believe and trust in Him and you greatly rejoice and delight with inexpressible and glorious joy.”
Commentary: Even though we cannot see God with our physical eyes, we experience inexpressible joy through faith in Him. Smiling is a reflection of the joy and delight we feel in our relationship with God. This verse reminds us that our faith brings a deep, spiritual joy that transcends earthly circumstances.
Zephaniah 3:17
“The Lord your God is in your midst, a Warrior who saves. He will rejoice over you with joy; He will be quiet in His love [making no mention of your past sins], He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.”
Commentary: God Himself rejoices over us with joy. This verse paints a beautiful picture of God’s love for His people. Smiling reflects our response to the knowledge that God delights in us and rejoices over us. His love brings joy and healing to our hearts, giving us every reason to smile.
Isaiah 61:10
“I will rejoice greatly in the Lord, My soul will exult in my God; For He has clothed me with garments of salvation, He has covered me with a robe of righteousness, As a bridegroom puts on a turban, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.”
Commentary: The imagery of being clothed in salvation and righteousness brings a deep sense of joy and celebration. Smiling is a natural response to the realization that we are loved, saved, and adorned by God’s grace. This verse calls us to rejoice greatly in the Lord for all that He has done for us.
Proverbs 31:25
“Strength and dignity are her clothing, And she smiles at the future [knowing that she and her family are prepared].”
Commentary: This verse describes a woman of strength and dignity who smiles at the future with confidence. Smiling at the future reflects faith in God’s plan and provision. It shows that we trust God’s guidance and protection, allowing us to face the days ahead with joy and peace.
John 16:22
“So for now you are in grief, but I will see you again, and then your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.”
Commentary: Jesus promises that our current sorrow will one day turn to joy. Smiling in the midst of grief reflects the hope we have in Christ’s return. This verse reminds us that no matter what trials we face now, there is a joy coming that no one can take away. Our hearts will rejoice fully in the presence of the Lord.
1 Chronicles 16:27
“Splendor and majesty are [found] in His presence; Strength and joy are [found] in His place.”
Commentary: God’s presence is filled with strength and joy. Smiling is an expression of the joy we experience when we spend time with God. This verse encourages us to seek His presence continually, where we will find the strength and joy needed for every circumstance in life.
Galatians 5:22
“But the fruit of the Spirit [the result of His presence within us] is love, [unselfish concern for others], joy, [inner] peace, patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting], kindness, goodness, faithfulness.”
Commentary: Joy is a fruit of the Spirit, a natural outcome of living in relationship with God. Smiling reflects the inner joy that the Holy Spirit produces in our hearts. This joy is not dependent on circumstances but comes from the deep peace and contentment we find in God’s love and presence.
Psalm 21:6
“For You make him most blessed and a blessing forever; You make him joyful with the joy of Your presence.”
Commentary: The joy of God’s presence is a source of continual blessing. Smiling reflects the joy we experience when we dwell in the presence of the Lord. This verse reminds us that true joy comes not from external blessings but from the blessing of being in relationship with God.
Psalm 97:11
“Light is sown [like seed] for the righteous and illuminates their path, And [irrepressible] joy [is spread] for the upright in heart [who delight in His favor and protection].”
Commentary: God provides light and joy for those who follow Him. Smiling reflects the irrepressible joy that comes from walking in righteousness and delighting in God’s favor. This verse encourages us to live upright lives, knowing that God’s joy and protection are with us every step of the way.
Psalm 32:11
“Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous [who actively seek right standing with Him]; Shout for joy, all you upright in heart.”
Commentary: This verse calls the righteous to be glad and rejoice in the Lord. Smiling is an expression of the joy we feel when we are in right standing with God. This joy is not passive but active, leading us to shout and proclaim the goodness of God with confidence and gladness.
Isaiah 55:12
“For you will go out [from exile] with joy and be led forth [by the Lord Himself] with peace; The mountains and the hills will break forth into shouts of joy before you, And all the trees of the field will clap their hands.”
Commentary: This verse describes a joyous exodus led by the Lord. Smiling reflects the joy of deliverance and the peace that comes from God’s guidance. Even creation itself rejoices at the work of God, and we are called to join in that celebration as we walk in freedom and peace under His direction.
Psalm 47:1
“O clap your hands, all you people; Shout to God with the voice of triumph and songs of joy.”
Commentary: The psalmist calls us to express our joy in God through clapping and shouting with triumph. Smiling is a reflection of the joy we feel as we praise God for His victories in our lives. This verse encourages us to be bold in our expressions of worship, knowing that our joy is rooted in God’s power and love.
Isaiah 40:29
“He gives strength to the weary, And to him who has no might He increases power.”
Commentary: Smiling is often an expression of renewed strength. This verse reminds us that God empowers us when we feel weak or weary. Even in our most difficult moments, we can smile knowing that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. This joy is a testament to His faithfulness and sustaining power.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Emotions
What Does the Bible Say About Smiling
Smiling is one of the simplest things we can do, but it has a deep meaning in our lives as people who believe in God. When we smile, we are showing that we have joy in our hearts, and this joy is not just something that comes from good times or happy moments, but from the deep peace and contentment that comes from knowing that God is with us. Our smile can be a sign to others that we trust in God’s plan, even when life is tough, and that we have hope, no matter what we are going through. When we smile, it is like we are sharing a little bit of the love and kindness that God has shown to us, and it can make someone else feel better, even if they are having a hard day.
A smile is also something that can bring people together because it shows kindness without needing words, and sometimes a smile can say more than a long speech ever could. It is a way to show love, understanding, and care to those around us, and it can be a simple way to help others feel less alone or worried. Even when we are feeling down or going through challenges, choosing to smile can be a way of telling ourselves and others that we have faith, and that we know things will get better, because we trust in the goodness of God.
Smiling is also something that can lift our own spirits. When we smile, it has a way of changing our mood and reminding us that there is always something to be thankful for. It is a small, but powerful way to show gratitude to God for the blessings we have, and it helps us to focus on the positive, even when life isn’t perfect. So, smiling is not just about feeling good in the moment, but it is also about spreading joy, hope, and faith to everyone around us.