Richard Roberts
Many in the medical profession have come to realize that laughter is an important part of a healthy life. The ability to laugh helps reduce anxiety and tension. And like a nutritious diet and exercise, positive emotions are necessary to keep us on an even keel; physically and emotionally.
Actually, medical science is confirming what the Bible says: A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones (Proverbs 17:22).
Laughter is not only a healing medicine for our souls but it also affects our bodies. When people laugh hard, their pulse rate quickens, their lungs expand and fill with oxygen, their capillaries open, and the pituitary gland is stimulated to produce natural pain killers. The overall effect is like taking the body on an internal jog.
God knows that we can’t do what we are called to do without His joy, which is our strength. No doubt that is one of the reasons Jesus’ departing message to His disciples concerned joy. He said, “I have told you these things that My joy and delight may be in you, and that your joy and gladness may be in full measure and complete and overflowing (John 15:11 AMP).” When Jesus fills our hearts with His joy, He can lead us through the most difficult circumstances with a deep gladness that permeates our very being. Such joy comes from knowing God personally and walking in daily fellowship with Him.
