_{*Quick Summary: The author discusses the benefits of pretending to be happy, even when you aren’t.*}

Did you know Satan can’t read minds? Sounds obvious, but it’s actually a great and overlooked tool in the spiritual battle. I’m a huge believer in “fake it until you make it” when things aren’t going right. If you smile a genuine smile, and give NO outward indications something is wrong, three things will happen:

1: You’ll confuse the devil. He can’t read your mind, so he’s forced to base his attacks on your outward appearance. Act like he’s not affecting you, and at first he’ll try a little harder, but soon afterwards he’ll leave you alone as he’ll become convinced you’re stronger than he thinks and God must have given you something extra to deal with the temptation. (God did!)

2: You’ll illicit a more positive response from those around you. As you focus on being positive, especially in the face of more public battles, people will look to you as an example. That creates a more positive atmosphere, which in turn, helps you to stay positive. You’re actually helping others to feed you their own positive vibes. It’s like manufacturing positivity.

3: You’ll start to feel better. If you do it right, you’ll actually reverse the bad feelings as you successfully, “fake it until you make it”. It works! Positive actions and words breed positive actions and words. Even if they’re forced at first. It really is that simple.

So, say a little silent prayer for God to provide you with HIS strength (don’t EVER ask for your own strength, ALWAYS ask for God to give you HIS), and start faking!