Radiant faces

“Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.” Psalm 34:5

As believers, our expressions should reflect the inner light of Christ, allowing others to see Him in us. Our faces should mirror God’s grace, joy, and peace. When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, it naturally shines through in our expressions and the way we present ourselves to others. When was the last time you paused to consider the expression on your face or the tone of your voice? How often do you reflect the joy, peace, and love of Christ in your daily interactions? Our expressions can serve as a silent but powerful witness to others.

In Genesis 4:6-7, God asks Cain, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.” This wasn’t simply about Cain’s facial expression; it was about the condition of his heart. His downcast face revealed bitterness, anger, and pride—emotions stemming from his rejection by God, which resulted from his failure to offer his best. God’s question to Cain wasn’t just about his outward appearance; it pointed to the deeper issue within his heart and actions. God warned Cain that unchecked anger could lead him to sin, as sin was lurking, waiting for him to give in. Yet, God also reminded him that he had the ability to overcome by choosing to do what was right. Are there areas in your life where unchecked anger or bitterness is affecting your attitude and expressions?

Our outward appearance and expressions are important because they reflect the state of our hearts and serve as a testimony to those around us. As followers of Christ, our countenance should radiate His joy, peace, and love. Proverbs 15:13 tells us, “A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance.” When we wear a smile, show kindness, and express joy, we demonstrate the joy of the Lord within us. This can become a powerful witness to others. On the other hand, a gloomy or bitter face can discourage others and may fail to reflect the grace of Christ. How can you intentionally display joy and peace in your interactions today? Whether it’s with a smile, a word of encouragement, or a gentle response to a challenging situation, we are called to show the light of Christ in everything we do.

Ephesians 4:31 urges us to “put away all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamour, and evil speaking.” Instead, we are called to have expressions that are welcoming and soft, opening doors for ministry and encouragement. Proverbs 16:24 beautifully reminds us, “Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” A kind and cheerful countenance, paired with pleasant words, can be a powerful tool for spreading the love and grace of Christ to those around us. Make a conscious effort today to speak words that are kind and uplifting. Choose to offer a cheerful word, a smile, or a gesture that reflects God’s love. Sometimes, the simplest actions can have the most profound impact on others, especially in a world that often feels heavy and burdensome.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17

Of course, there are moments when we are sad or unhappy with situations. In Nehemiah 2:2-3, the king asks Nehemiah, “Why does your face look so sad when you are not ill? This can be nothing but sadness of heart.” Nehemiah’s countenance revealed the burden on his heart. His sorrowful face spoke volumes about the distress he felt over Jerusalem’s ruined state. This highlights how our countenance can express what is within us. For believers, it is an opportunity to share our hearts and concerns and help one another. If you see somebody hurting or not smiling, encourage them towards joy.

Matthew 6:16-18 offers another valuable insight into our outward expressions. Jesus teaches, “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Here, Jesus encourages His followers to maintain a joyful and composed countenance, even when undergoing the discipline of fasting. A positive outward expression reflects the humility and sincerity of a right heart. Are there times in your life when you might be tempted to seek approval or recognition from others? Whether it’s in times of spiritual discipline, hardship, or everyday life, remember that maintaining a humble and joyful countenance honours God. Focus on pleasing Him rather than seeking the approval of others.