Daily Devotional for Small Group Discussion: If You’re Happy and You Know It

by Phiwa Langeni | published on Dec 16, 2024

Discussion Questions 

  1. Before discussion, read Nehemiah 8:7-12. Then read the devotional below, “If You’re Happy and You Know It.” 
  1. What does happiness mean to you? What do you think it looks like? 
  1. When has a child reminded you of joy, as the devotional author experienced?  
  1. When have you been inspired to invite strangers to a celebratory meal (Nehemiah 8:12)? 

Nehemiah said to all the people, “Don’t feel bad. The joy of God is your strength!” – Nehemiah 8:10b (MSG) 

It was Vacation Bible School (VBS) at the church that week. I was frazzled when I walked into the building filled with a bunch of tiny-sized humans singing and laughing, playing and crying, staring and learning, crafting and doing all sorts of stuff. On the way to my office, I poked my head into each room to say hi, forcing a smile on my face with each quick visit. 

In the last room, I was invited to join the children as they held hands to create a circle-blob around the room to sing, “If You’re Happy and You Know It.” I immediately declined the invitation, mumbling a series of excuses and started edging out of the room. But then something in me made me reconsider. Maybe it was the energy in the room of these eager young ones getting ready to sing and move their bodies that enticed me back in.  

One child with big, brown, sparkly eyes clued me in on the last verse of the song when you do all three actions from the previous verses. I already knew about this last verse, but I was so captivated by her excitement. Her enthusiasm chipped big chunks away from my sour mood. 

“…if you’re happy and you know it then your face will surely show it…” 

Something quite magical happened as I witnessed these young and eager voices singing. Like never before, I realized these children were, indeed, happy. Their faces surely showed it. By the time we got to the last verse with all three actions, I realized that I, too, was truly happy. 

And in that moment, I knew it. 

Prayer
Strengthen us with your joy, wherever we may find it. Amen.

Phiwa LangeniAbout the Author
The Rev. Phiwa Langeni is the Ambassador for Innovation & Engagement of the United Church of Christ. They are also the Founder of Salus Center, the only LGBTQ resource and community center in Lansing, MI.