I read somewhere that a great way to boost a child’s confidence as they grow is to acknowledge them with joy whenever they enter a room. I took this to heart, and as the opportunities arose, I put it into practice with my nephew. When he walked into a room where I happened to be, no matter what was going on, I made a point of smiling and saying something like, “Hey! there’s my nephew!” Or “Oh, I’m glad you’re here. Come look at this.” Sometimes just a big welcoming smile and wave seemed best.

He has grown into a charming, affectionate, and successful young man, for which I take all the credit.

I have realized that this works to boost the mood of adults as well. When I moved to a new town years ago, I joined a tennis team. (Sports have always been my go-to method for making new friends.) One lady on this team greeted me with welcoming good cheer each time we got together. She seemed happy to see me even though I didn’t know her at all. I remember how good that felt, so now, when a new person arrives among my friends, I try to greet them with joy. Even with old friends I haven’t seen recently, I make a point to acknowledge them and say how happy I am to see them.

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and bless his name.” (Psalms‬ ‭100‬:‭4,‬ ‭CSB‬‬)

God doesn’t need anything from me. His confidence isn’t lacking, and He isn’t shy. He is whole, complete, and perfect exactly as He is. And yet He appreciates being greeted with joy and gratitude. He created people for this, in fact. He created us so He could enjoy a relationship with us, and we could enjoy a relationship with Him.

And all the best relationships begin each encounter with joy and gratitude.

Dear God, thank you for all that you are and for sharing yourself with me. Thank you for your beautiful creation and for creating me in the midst of it. I am filled with joy when I focus on your beauty, power, wisdom, and holiness. Remind me to start each conversation with you with this gratitude in my heart.