D'var Torah: Happiness and spirituality compliment each other, like perfect soul mates. A person taps into his spiritual powers by consciously awakening joy within his soul. The more inner joy a person attains, the more holiness and purity he experiences. For instance, when Elisha HaNavi wanted to attain prophecy, he requested a minstrel to play for him. The sweet music uplifted his soul with happiness, joy, and positive thoughts. In this way, he elevated his heart and soul to come close to HaShem and receive a prophecy.
Moral: We enhance our holiness by attaining a joyful state of mind before we engage in the Mitzvot.
Application: Stimulate joy in your heart before you do a Mitzvah. For instance, listen to a beautiful song, or reflect on the miracles of the Exodus, before you pray. Perform the Mitzvah while your heart is filled with joy and experience new levels of holiness and closeness to HaShem.
(Based on the Menorat HaMaor)
