Do Real Christians Laugh?: Lasting Joy
Thursday, October 25, 2018
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
"Be happy [in your faith] and rejoice and be glad-hearted continually (always)."
Thoughts for Today
Laughter is one of the marks of God's image in us. To miss out on joy is to miss out on the reason for our existence. God wants his joy to be in us.
It's not only OK for "real" Christians to laugh. It's imperative! Today's scripture makes it clear that the Bible puts joy in the non-optional category. Philippians 4:4 AMP says, "Rejoice in the Lord always [delight, gladden yourselves in Him]; again, I say, Rejoice!"
God wants us to be happy, and he makes it possible. There is only one catch to all of this. It is impossible to experience real joy unless you have invited the King of Joy, Jesus, to come into your life.
Consider this …
Are you experiencing the joy of the Lord? Joy that gives you laughter … joy that sustains you even through difficult times? If not, perhaps you've never invited Jesus into your life … Or maybe you have, but have continued doing things your way, rather than his way.
Jesus wants to help you, to strengthen you, to fill you with the laughter and joy that only he can give. Consider making the King of Joy, Jesus, Lord of your life today.
Prayer
Lord, I have tried things my own way and have never found lasting joy. I'm ready to do things your way. I believe that Jesus died for me. Please forgive my sins and help me live your way. Help me to be happy in my faith and to rejoice continually. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …Authentic Living in an Artificial World by Dr. Mike Chapman. This 45-minute group study gives understanding about what it means to be real. The facilitator's guide includes reproducible group member study sheets and an audio CD designed to help facilitators prepare for each session. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a study for individuals or couples.
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©Living Free 2018. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day® devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN, www.LivingFree.org. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending an e-mail to info@LivingFree.org