LAUGHTER: THE GOOD MEDICINE
Proverbs 17:17-22
Medical Science has proven that the Biblical claim that laughter is medicine is indeed true as laughter has been said to strengthen the immune system, boost moods, diminish pain and protect the body from damaging effect of stress. It does to the internal organs what jogging does to your physical body. According to experts, when you laugh, there is a contraction of the muscles, which increases blood flow and oxygenation. What this does is to stimulate your heart and lungs to trigger the release of hormones (endorphins) that aid your relaxation, both physically and emotionally, lowering your blood pressure, reducing stress hormones and increasing muscle flexion. In summary, laughter rejuvenates what the pressures of life have depleted.
Apart from these medical facts about laughter, it is one of the greatest stress relievers God has given man. There is too much sickness and death by way of suicide in the world today. Most of them stem from sadness and depression. But there is a healing power in laughter. If only we could explore it to our advantage.We as Christians have the privilege to benefit greatly from laughter because we have been instructed to be joyful.
Joy is not optional in the life of a Christian. In fact, it is one of the fruit of the Spirit, a symbol of our faith. Every child of God is commanded to be joyful – “Rejoice always” (1 Thessalonians 5:16). It is true that we cannot always have pleasant situations all of the time. But in the midst of it all, we are called to maintain a positive attitude, focus on Christ, not on our circumstances. We must cultivate a joyful heart, counting your blessings on daily basis.
Memory Verse: “Rejoice in the Lord and take refuge in Him” (Psalms 64:10).
PRAYER: Dear Lord, fill my life with your Joy at all times.
