Jonathan McReynolds - Smile Lyrics
Lyrics
Intro
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Just smile
Just smile
Verse 1: Johnathan McReynolds
Life doesn't always give you much reason to smile
And though life sometimes has an attitude, I won't change mine
And all the love You've given
And all the ways You've made
The fact that I'm still living
How dare I wear a frown on my face
Chorus: Jonathan McReynolds
I can't help but smile
'Cause I realize what You've done for me
All those battles You've won for me
And that someday soon You will come for me
I can't help but sing
'Cause You already gave me the victory
And no pain, and no hurt and no misery
Could take away my smile
Take away my smile (Yeah, yeah, yeah)
Verse 2: Ashley Washington
Funny how people always have something to say
But I find peace in knowing that You love me anyway
And no matter how I'm feeling
You will never change (no)
It ain't always easy living
But now that I have a choice today
Chorus: Both
I can't help but smile
'Cause I realize what You've done for me
All those battles You've won for me
And that someday soon You will come for me
I can't help but sing
'Cause You already gave me the victory
And no pain, and no hurt and no misery
Can take away my smile
(Yeah, yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah, yeah)
Take away my smile
Bridge: Jonathan McReynolds and Ashley Washington
If the Lord's made a way for you to see another day
Just smile
Regardless of what they, what the others have to say
Just smile
Take the good and be grateful, know the bad will be handled
And smile
It will all be okay, take the worry off your face
'Cause you'll look better anyway, give it to God
And just smile
Chorus: Both
'Cause I realize what You've done for me
All the battles You've won for me
And that someday soon You will come for me (come for me)
I can't help but sing
'Cause you already gave me the victory
And no pain, and no hurt and no misery
Can take away my smile
(Yeah, yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah, yeah)
Outro
The world didn't give it
And the world can't take it away
Yeah, the world doesn't get it
But the world's gonna see it today
Video
Smile
Meaning & Inspiration
Jonathan McReynolds’ anticipated song "Smile", released on March 8, 2025, arrives as a resonant expression of internal fortitude amidst external pressures. The piece immediately addresses a universal human experience: the disconnect often felt between outward appearance and inner reality. It seems to speak to those moments when the face presented to the world – perhaps bearing a smile – belies a spirit wrestling with unseen burdens, doubts, or weariness. The song doesn't suggest a superficial or forced happiness, but rather explores the source of a deeper, more resilient form of peace and joy that can manifest even when circumstances are far from perfect. It probes the idea that a genuine "smile" isn't always a reflection of ease, but can be a testament to faith, perseverance, and an inner strength anchored beyond fluctuating feelings or situations.
Delving into the song’s message reveals a profound connection to biblical truths about facing trials and finding strength in God. It echoes the sentiment found in James 1:2-4, which encourages us to "count it all joy when you meet trials of various kinds," knowing that the testing of faith produces steadfastness. The smile in the song isn't a denial of difficulty, but potentially the outward sign of the "steadfastness" being worked within. It brings to mind Philippians 4:6-7, which advises against being anxious about anything but instead to bring everything to God in prayer with thanksgiving, promising that "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." That supernatural peace, existing independently of chaos, is surely a wellspring from which such a smile could flow. The song seems to argue that this inner state, sustained by faith, is more significant and more genuinely reflective of one’s true condition than the temporary discomforts life may bring.
The musical landscape McReynolds creates for "Smile" complements its introspective yet hopeful theme. The melody and arrangement foster a sense of quiet assurance and understated resilience. This musical framing supports the lyrical exploration of finding strength not through outward show, but from an internal source – which for those anchored in faith, points directly to God. It aligns with Proverbs 15:13, which states, "A joyful heart makes a cheerful face," but adds layers, suggesting that this joy comes not from circumstance, but from a place of deeper trust. It reminds us that "man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). The song encourages a focus on the internal cultivation of faith and peace, trusting that the external expression, the "smile," becomes authentic because it flows from a place of divine security. It’s a powerful musical reminder that our true state is defined by our relationship with the unchanging God, not by the temporary storms we weather.
Ultimately, "Smile" serves as an encouraging anthem for navigating the complexities of life with faith as the compass. It challenges the notion that happiness is merely the absence of problems, proposing instead that true joy and peace are gifts available through connection with the Divine, capable of shining through even when things are hard. The song beautifully illustrates how a countenance can reflect a deeper reality – the reality of God's presence and strength sustaining the soul, as promised in Isaiah 41:10: "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." This perspective transforms the simple act of smiling from a forced facade into a potential declaration of faith, a quiet witness to the enduring hope found in Christ, a testament to the peace that truly does surpass all understanding. It is a musical invitation to find the source of that unwavering strength and let it illuminate your path.