Have a Good Laugh
By Chris Rathbone
Mitchell County
The Bible says in Proverbs 17:22 “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.”
You have heard, I’m sure, the old saying, “Laughter is the best medicine!” I recently read an online article from the Mayo Clinic on the benefits of laughter. Some of the benefits listed were: improvements to your immune system, pain relief, soothing tension, activating and relieving your stress response, stimulation of the organs by increased oxygen-rich intake and increases endorphins that your brain releases, improves overall mood, and increases personal satisfaction. Their recommendation was basically to find something to laugh about and have a good sense of humor, it’s good for your health!
While I certainly understand that there is a time and place for seriousness in life, we need to be sure that there are times we laugh in this life!
Personally, I’ve always been one that loves to make people laugh. Over the years I’ve bumped into some who apparently believe it’s a sin to laugh or even smile. They are constantly walking around with a frown on their face, seemingly mad at the world, and obviously wanting everyone else to join in on their misery. For them, there is nothing in life to smile about, laugh about, or enjoy. Even though they are surrounded by the blessings of God in their life, their focus seems to always be on the negative side of things. You know the type; “Misery loves company!”
There’s no doubt that this life can surely bring things that break our hearts. Just living in this fallen sinful world exposes us to some of the same trials, temptations, and tribulations that even unbelievers face. Being a Christian doesn’t make us immune to these kinds of situations. However, Christians, look at life very differently. We know that in the grand scheme of things, Jesus is working for our good even in the most difficult times. All the hard things in this life are but temporary and there is coming a day when our Savior will right all wrongs, heal all diseases, mend all broken hearts, and wipe away all tears. Ultimately, everything is going to be alright in the end.
Then there’s the other side of this life. The side where we bask in the blessings of our Savior. Our flesh, the devil, this unbelieving world, doesn’t want us to focus much on this side. The side where we have a Savior that never leaves us, where we are saved by His grace, our sins are forgiven, we have been given salvation full and free, and one day we’ll leave this world and be with Jesus forever and ever! Aren’t those things something to smile about?
There are also wonderful things in life. The spouse that God gave us to have and to hold. Children that bring such joy and pride. Not to mention how crazy your grandparents are over those grandbabies! Hopefully, we have a church family with whom we worship and pray together. We make memories with our friends. Aren’t those things something to smile about?
What about laughter? Laughter makes the work day go by faster. We can laugh with our loved ones as we share about funny moments and memories. These times bring us closer to one another and help us build stronger bonds of fellowship with family and friends. When’s the last time you just laughed so hard your stomach muscles hurt?
Don’t let this life steal away all the good stuff God has given to you! Look around you at all the blessings Jesus has bestowed on us! Embrace the joy we have in Jesus!
A happy heart is good for our body and soul, like good medicine! Smile at every opportunity that is given to you. Laugh with family and friends when the moment calls for it! I believe with all my heart that Jesus smiled, laughed with His friends, and enjoyed life with those around him. Children sure weren’t drawn to Him because He had a frown on His face!
So go ahead, have a good laugh, and smile for all Jesus has given us!
In Christ,
Preacher Chris
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Preacher Chris Rathbone serves as Pastor at Mine Creek Baptist Church.
You can read more Good Christian News from Pastor Chris HERE.
You can connect with Preacher Chris on Facebook HERE.
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