Laugh It Out

He will yet fill your mouth with laughter, and your lips with shouting.

— Job 8:21

Sometimes it’s difficult to escape the pressure, strain and worries of life. Anxiety can take a serious toll on our bodies and minds. Experts say that stress often has a negative effect on the heart rate and blood pressure. Certain stress-related hormones can even cause inflammation and heart disease.

All that from stress? Well, there is good news. Medical experts say that maintaining a positive emotional state can reduce the chance of a first heart attack by 50%. There’s a reason why the writer of Proverbs said “a joyful heart is good medicine” (Proverbs 17:22). Laughter can improve immune functions, lower blood pressure and so much more.

Have you ever laughed so hard your stomach muscles hurt or tears of laughter escaped your eyes? The storms of life come with stress, but laughter breaks through the pain much like the sun breaks into the morning. Bursts of laugher—no matter the reason—can provide your heart and mind with much needed relief.

It’s not always easy to find joy in the midst of trials. Job would know about that. The Old Testament chronicles his pain. He lost everything—his children, his wealth, his cattle. But Job was reminded that God would restore laughter to his life, and God did.

Enjoy laughter when it comes, for it is good medicine. And in the hard times trust that God will restore it in His timing.

Today’s One Thing

If you find yourself in a storm today, look for an opportunity to laugh. Ask the Lord for moments of humor, and then choose to participate when laughter comes your way.

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