Living in Joy

God will let you laugh again; you’ll raise the roof with shouts of joy (Job 8:21).

Laughter is a wonderful gift from God! Humor can make us laugh and smile, even when things are difficult. We’ve all experienced a time when well-timed and goodhearted humor inspired laughter, and it was just the medicine we needed for our heavy hearts. Mark Twain once said, “Against the assault of laughter, nothing can stand.” God created laughter to enhance our lives. He wants us to be joyful, and He promises that even the most difficult circumstances cannot steal the joy that is available in Him!

There are times it can even be helpful to laugh at ourselves, rather than let life’s daily challenges get us down. The Bible tells us, “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Neh. 8:10). It is sometimes said that God, himself, has a sense of humor!

God’s fulfillment of a promise to Abraham in Genesis 21 inspired laughter. He provided a son to Abraham and Sarah when they were 90 and 100 years old! Sarah responded by saying, “God has brought me laughter. All who hear about this will laugh with me” (Gen 21:6). The couple, in shock, laughed in disbelief and rejoiced that God had given them their son at such an old age!

We can rest in knowing that He promises to restore joy and laughter after times of pain and struggle. We can rejoice in the truth that God desires for us to laugh and to experience joy everlasting!

Guiding Points:

Call to Action: How has God restored your joy after a difficult time? Read the following scriptures about joy and laugher, professing them over your life:

She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness (Proverbs 31:25-26).

God blesses you who are hungry now, for you will be satisfied. God blesses you who weep now, for in due time you will laugh (Luke 6:21).

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything (John 1:1-2).

Prayer: Father God, Your name is high and lifted up today! We thank you for being with us in our daily walk with You. We ask that you will continue to give us strength in difficult moments and remind us that our joy comes from You. Help us to put our trust in You and to know that no matter the circumstances, You are with us. We know that You want us to have joy and peace in our lives. Thank you for all you do, Lord! We give you all the glory, honor, and praise due your name, Amen!

Final thoughts: It is God’s heart that we have a joyful, hope-filled life. The source of all joy is in Jesus. Celebrate that truth and share it with those around you!