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Scripture on Laughter: Finding Joy and Healing in God's Word
Introduction:
Life can be incredibly challenging. We face setbacks, disappointments, and sorrows that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and depleted. But even in the darkest of times, there's a powerful antidote available to us: laughter. This blog post delves into the surprisingly rich tapestry of scripture on laughter, exploring how the Bible speaks to the importance of joy, its connection to faith, and the healing power it possesses. We'll examine specific biblical passages, uncover the deeper meanings behind them, and explore how to cultivate a spirit of laughter that aligns with God's will. Prepare to discover a renewed perspective on the significance of laughter in your spiritual journey.
Understanding the Biblical Perspective on Laughter:
Laughter, in the biblical context, is far more than a simple physiological response. It's interwoven with themes of faith, hope, healing, and the very nature of God himself. It's not frivolous or shallow; rather, it’s a reflection of a heart filled with the peace and joy that only God can provide.
1. Laughter as a Sign of God's Blessing:
The Book of Genesis provides an early example of laughter associated with divine blessing. Sarah, Abraham's wife, laughs incredulously when God promises her a child in her old age (Genesis 18:12). This laughter, though initially born of doubt, becomes a symbol of God's miraculous intervention and the fulfillment of His promises. God's response to Sarah's laughter isn't condemnation; instead, it highlights His power to overcome even the most seemingly impossible circumstances. This points to the potential of laughter as a response to God's seemingly unbelievable actions in our lives.
2. The Joyful Heart and the Medicine of Laughter:
Proverbs 17:22 states, "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." This proverb directly links a joyful heart—often expressed through laughter—to physical and emotional well-being. Laughter releases endorphins, reducing stress and boosting the immune system. From a spiritual perspective, a joyful heart is a testament to our trust in God's sovereignty and His provision, even amidst difficulties. It's a recognition that our joy doesn't depend on circumstances but on our relationship with Him.
3. Laughter in the Face of Adversity:
The Psalms are replete with expressions of both sorrow and joy. While acknowledging hardship and suffering, many Psalms also reveal a resilient spirit that finds reasons for laughter even in the midst of adversity. Psalm 126:2, for example, speaks of returning from exile with "joyful hearts, carrying sheaves of grain." This verse reminds us that even after periods of profound difficulty, there is a potential for rejoicing and laughter as we experience God's restoration and renewal. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining hope and finding reasons to celebrate even after setbacks.
4. Laughter as a Form of Worship:
While not explicitly stated, the overall tone of many biblical passages suggests that laughter, when rooted in faith, can be considered a form of worship. The spontaneous outburst of joy and praise found in many celebratory moments in the Bible, such as the return of the Ark of the Covenant (2 Samuel 6), showcases the natural expression of faith through joyful exuberance, often manifesting as laughter. It reflects a heart overwhelmed with gratitude and awe toward God.
5. The Importance of a Balanced Perspective:
It's crucial to understand that biblical laughter isn't about ignoring suffering or trivializing hardship. Rather, it's about finding joy amidst challenges, maintaining a positive outlook rooted in faith, and trusting in God's ultimate plan. The Bible encourages us to find strength and perseverance, not to suppress emotions, but to experience the full spectrum of human emotion while maintaining a hopeful perspective founded on faith.
Book Outline: "Finding Laughter in the Light of Faith"
Introduction: Defining laughter within a biblical context.
Chapter 1: Laughter as a Response to God's Promises (Genesis 18:12)
Chapter 2: The Healing Power of Laughter (Proverbs 17:22)
Chapter 3: Laughter in the Face of Adversity (Psalm 126:2)
Chapter 4: Laughter as an Expression of Worship (Various Psalms and narratives)
Chapter 5: Balancing Laughter and Suffering (Job, Lamentations)
Conclusion: Cultivating a Joyful Heart and the Power of Laughter in Everyday Life
Detailed Explanation of the Book Outline:
Each chapter would explore the relevant biblical passages in depth, providing historical context, theological interpretations, and practical applications for modern life. For instance, Chapter 1 would analyze Sarah's laughter in Genesis 18:12, exploring its initial context of doubt and its transformation into a symbol of God's faithfulness. Chapter 2 would delve into the proverb about a joyful heart being good medicine, exploring the scientific and spiritual benefits of laughter, and offering practical strategies for cultivating joy. Subsequent chapters would follow a similar pattern, connecting specific biblical texts to contemporary relevance. The concluding chapter would synthesize the key themes, offering practical advice on how to integrate laughter into daily life as a means of spiritual growth and emotional well-being.
FAQs:
1. Is laughter always appropriate in the context of faith? No, inappropriate laughter can be disrespectful or insensitive. Biblical laughter should be balanced and appropriate for the situation.
2. How can I cultivate a more joyful heart? Through prayer, meditation, spending time in nature, practicing gratitude, and building strong relationships.
3. Does the Bible condemn all forms of humor? No, the Bible doesn't condemn humor, but it does encourage us to use humor wisely and responsibly.
4. How can laughter help me cope with difficult situations? It releases endorphins, reduces stress, and provides a healthy emotional outlet.
5. What is the difference between laughter and cynicism? Laughter rooted in faith is positive and hopeful; cynicism is negative and pessimistic.
6. Can laughter be a form of spiritual warfare? Yes, joy and laughter can be powerful weapons against negativity and despair.
7. Is there a connection between laughter and forgiveness? Yes, forgiveness often leads to a release of tension and can result in laughter.
8. How can I share the joy of God with others? By being a source of positivity and encouragement, and sharing your faith through acts of kindness and service.
9. How can I incorporate laughter into my daily prayer life? Express gratitude and thankfulness to God with a joyful heart.
Related Articles:
1. The Power of Positive Thinking in the Bible: Explores biblical passages that promote optimism and a positive outlook.
2. Finding Peace in the Midst of Chaos: Examines biblical strategies for managing stress and anxiety.
3. The Role of Joy in Spiritual Growth: Discusses the importance of joy as a fruit of the Spirit.
4. Biblical Perspectives on Happiness: Explores the difference between happiness and joy within a Christian framework.
5. Overcoming Grief and Loss Through Faith: Offers biblical comfort and guidance for those experiencing grief.
6. The Importance of Gratitude in a Christian Life: Explores the spiritual benefits of practicing gratitude.
7. Developing a Strong Relationship with God: Offers practical advice on deepening one's faith.
8. Stress Management Techniques for Christians: Examines biblical principles for managing stress effectively.
9. The Benefits of Prayer and Meditation: Discusses the power of prayer and meditation for spiritual and emotional well-being.
| scripture on laughter: 7 Days of Awesome Shawn Byous, 2016-02-23 With a Dr. Seuss feel, 7 Days of Awesome rhymes its way through each day of creation and encourages children to ponder God’s wisdom in creating this wonderful world. Accompanied by charming, animated illustrations by Colin Jack, this whimsical read-aloud book will be sure to delight both children and their parents. |
| scripture on laughter: Rich Wounds David Mathis, 2022-02-01 Profound reflections on the cross that help you to meditate on and marvel at the sacrificial love of Jesus. This book can be used as a devotional, especially during Lent and Easter. These profound reflections on the cross from David Mathis, author of The Christmas We Didn’t Expect, will help you to meditate on and marvel at Jesus’ life, sacrificial death, and spectacular resurrection-enabling you to treasure anew who Jesus is and what he has done. Many of us are so familiar with the Easter story that it becomes easy to miss subtle details and difficult to really enjoy its meaning. This book will help you to pause and marvel at Jesus, whose now-glorified wounds are a sign of his unfailing love and the decisive victory that he has won: “He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5) This book can be used as a devotional. The chapters on Holy Week make it especially helpful during the Lent season and at Easter. |
| scripture on laughter: Between Heaven and Mirth James Martin, 2011-10-04 “Between Heaven and Mirth will make any reader smile. . . . Father Martin reminds us that happiness is the good God’s own goal for us.” —Timothy M. Dolan, Archbishop of New York From The Colbert Report’s “official chaplain” James Martin, SJ, author of the New York Times bestselling The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything, comes a revolutionary look at how joy, humor, and laughter can change our lives and save our spirits. A Jesuit priest with a busy media ministry, Martin understands the intersections between spirituality and daily life. In Between Heaven and Mirth, he uses scriptural passages, the lives of the saints, the spiritual teachings of other traditions, and his own personal reflections to show us why joy is the inevitable result of faith, because a healthy spirituality and a healthy sense of humor go hand-in-hand with God's great plan for humankind. |
| scripture on laughter: Laugh Again Charles R. Swindoll, 1995-03-08 Did you hear the one about the Christian who couldn't keep from laughing? Chuck Swindoll has not only heard it, he tells it in this delightful book that gives us permission to be happy again. When did life stop being funny? Swindoll asks. His answer is found in this best-selling book which speaks to all busy, joy-drained people?from the pressured businessman to the harried homemaker. In Laugh Again, readers will discover ways to live in the present, say no to negativism, and realize that, while no one's life is perfect, joy and humor can be inspirational. Let Chuck Swindoll show you how to experience outrageous joy . . . and learn to laugh again! |
| scripture on laughter: Laughter and the Grace of God Brian Edgar, 2020-01-01 We cannot really love anybody with whom we never laugh, and this is true of our relationship with God. Thomas Aquinas spoke of the sin of having too little laughter as well as the danger of having too much, while Martin Luther said, ‘If you’re not allowed to laugh in heaven, I don’t want to go there.’ Having a sense of humour is essential for maturity in faith and holiness, but sadly, the role that laughter plays in life and spirituality have often been neglected. Laughter and the Grace of God restores laughter to its central place in Christian spirituality and theology by examining its role in Scripture and highlighting its presence in unexpected places, including the story of Abraham and the formation of the covenant, and the tragedy of Job. Laughter can be found in the incarnation, the resurrection, and even the crucifixion – Jesus is himself the great laugh-maker – and it is nothing less than a participation in the life and love of God. |
| scripture on laughter: Thinking on Scripture: A Collection of Theological Essays - Volume 2 Steven R. Cook, 2020-12-19 In this second volume, Dr. Cook provides a series of articles that are part of his morning meditations on Scripture. Meditation, in the biblical sense, is an intentional filling of the mind with divine viewpoint; specifically, God’s Word. The purpose is to saturate our thinking with Scripture so that it will permeate all aspects of our reasoning and guide us into God’s will. These articles touch on subjects such as soteriology, grace, worship, righteous living, and character studies of people such as Saul and David. The overall intent of the book is to inform and inspire believers to live righteously before God. |
| scripture on laughter: God Makes Me Laugh Joseph A. Grassi, 2009-03-23 God has made me Laugh and all who hear about it will laugh at me. These are the words of Sarah after she bore a child to Abraham when both were in advanced old age. Sarah named this child Isaac which means laughter. Thus believers, as descendants of Abraham and Isaac are children of laughter. Luke takes the theme of joy and laughter through his whole gospel. The angels at Jesus's birth announce good news of great joy to all the people. Jesus presents his teaching in the form of grace and surprise which prompt joy and laughter on the part of the gospel audience. Luke has before him the image of a laughing Jesus. As a climactic story, Jesus visits Jericho near the Dead Sea. The chief tax collector for Rome, Zaccheus, a most unpopular man, small in stature and character as well, climbs a tree so he can see Jesus coming in spite of the crowds. Jesus spots him with laughter, and calls out, to the dismay of the crowd, Zaccheus, hurry up and climb down, I'm going to have dinner at your house today. Luke's gospel presents Jesus as a comic contrast to many ultra-serious religious teachers by his concern for the outcast, strangers, and marginalized of society. |
| scripture on laughter: The Humor of Christ Elton Trueblood, 1964 The Humor of Christ inspires Christians to redraw their pictures of Christ and to add a persistent biblical detail, the note of humor. Throughout the Gospels, Christ employed humor for the sake of truth and many of his teachings, when seen in this light, become brilliantly clear for the first time. Irony, satire, paradox, even laughter itself help clarify Christ's famous parables, His brief sayings, and important events in His life. |
| scripture on laughter: And Still She Laughs Kate Merrick, 2017-03-07 Kate Merrick examines the Bible’s gritty stories of resilient women as well as her own experience losing a child—a journey followed by more than a million on prayfordaisy.com—to reveal the reality of surprising joy and deep hope even in the midst of heartache. Is it possible live fully—even joyfully—in the middle of overwhelming pain? In the excruciating aftermath of her young daughter’s death from cancer, Kate Merrick struggled to find a way to live. Not just to survive or go through the motions, but to live fully. Faithfully. With real joy amid inevitable tears. To discover how, Kate delved into the stories in the Bible of real women who suffered deeply and emerged somehow joyful. How did Sarah, after twenty-five years of achingly empty arms, learn to laugh without bitterness? How did Bathsheba, defiled by the king who then had her husband killed, come to walk in strength and dignity, to smile without fear of the future? In her encounters with these heroines of the faith, Kate discovered how to have contentment—and even joy—whatever the circumstances. By turns heartbreaking and humorous, And Still She Laughs reveals the secret to finding hope in the midst of devastation. In the end, no matter what hardships we face, we can smile, cry, and come away full—laughing without fear and eagerly looking for what is to come. “And Still She Laughs is the terrifying, tearful, heartbreaking, heart healing and humorous, definitive true story of survival and triumph.” —Kathy Ireland, chair of Kathy Ireland Worldwide “Kate Merrick is one of those women that I always wish I had more time with—her honesty, sincerity, and messy straightforwardness are different, in the very best way. Her book, And Still She Laughs, is the same way. It’s one of those books I will keep coming back to it for truth and inspiration.” —Lindsey Nobles, COO of the IF:Gathering |
| scripture on laughter: Laughing in the Dark Chonda Pierce, 2016-04-05 Based on the hit movie, Chonda and co-writer Dale McCleskey (Beth Moore, Priscilla Shirer) dig into one of the Bible's most difficult books. Chonda parallels her life and many woman's experiences to Job's struggles and enduring faith. Chonda's take on pain, loss, friends, relatives and the nature of God are filled with the truth and humor that Conda's legions of fans have come to expect from one of the most influential Christian women in our era. From the introduction. . .Whether you're new to Bible study or you like to read the original Hebrew text for relaxation, I hope you will come to value Job like a dear friend. Though we cannot answer all the questions Job's story raises, I think we can learn a great deal from his experience. his story touches all of us, because all people suffer in ways we cannot explain. On Job's parentingThe book told how he sacrificed for his children. His children would have parties and just live life. Meanwhile daddy Job would go make a sacrifice and repent for them. he even offered sacrifices for sins they might have committed. Suddenly I realized Job was among the worst parents on the planet! He never let his kids suffer their own consequences. And that's when it hit me: Now Job, that's where I'm exactly like you. You are a brother from another mother! |
| scripture on laughter: The Son of Laughter Frederick Buechner, 1993 Now available in paperback, Buechner's critically acclaimed novel based on the Jacob narratives--a classic family saga. Buechner has taken these familiar pieces and woven them together into a seamless coat of many colors. His impeccable artistry has created a piece of extended poetry that never loses sight of the characters or the story. . . . An extraordinary novel.--Christian Century. Copyright © Libri GmbH. All rights reserved. |
| scripture on laughter: Spiritual Classics Richard J. Foster, Emilie Griffin, Renovare, 2000-01-05 The Brightest Lights of the Christian Tradition St. Augustine, Thomas Merton, Fredrick Buechner, Evelyn Underhill, A.W. Tozer, G.K. Chesterton, Thomas More, Martin Luther King, Jr., Amy Carmichael, Simone Weil, Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, Hildegard of Bingen, John Milton, Dorothy Day, Leo Tolstoy, Gerard Manley Hopkins, and more. . . From nearly two thousand years of Christian writing comes Spiritual Classcs,fifty–two selections complete with a profile of each author, guided meditations for group and individual use, and reflections containing questions and exercises. Editors Richard Foster and Emilie Griffith offer their expertise by selecting inspirational writings and including their own commentary and recommendations for further guided reading and exploration. |
| scripture on laughter: Holy Hilarity Mark Roncace, 2016 |
| scripture on laughter: Laughing with God Gerald A. Arbuckle, 2008 Defining humor, its expressions and uses -- Humor in the scriptures -- Joking and life's transitions -- Joking transitions and laughter of the heart in the Old Testament -- Transformative joking in the New Testament -- Understanding humor in cultures -- The churches and humor : reflections -- Laughing with God : transformation through humor. |
| scripture on laughter: A Time to Laugh Mark E. Biddle, 2013 An extension of the author's seminary course on humor in the Bible which draws on his command of Hebrew language and cultural subtleties to explore the ways humor was intentionally incorporated into scripture. The reader is guided through the stories of six biblical characters who did rather unexpected things |
| scripture on laughter: Laugh Again Hope Again Charles R. Swindoll, 2010 In this timely two-in-one volume, Swindoll helps readers rediscover two profound benefits of knowing God: joy and hope. |
| scripture on laughter: Holy Bible Kenneth Copeland, 2017 |
| scripture on laughter: Ecclesiastes , 1999 The publication of the King James version of the Bible, translated between 1603 and 1611, coincided with an extraordinary flowering of English literature and is universally acknowledged as the greatest influence on English-language literature in history. Now, world-class literary writers introduce the book of the King James Bible in a series of beautifully designed, small-format volumes. The introducers' passionate, provocative, and personal engagements with the spirituality and the language of the text make the Bible come alive as a stunning work of literature and remind us of its overwhelming contemporary relevance. |
| scripture on laughter: Laughter Therapy Tina Krause, 2002-05 More than four dozen hilarious essays offer humor workouts and spiritual lessons, designed to bring light to the lessthan-amusing moments of a woman's life. |
| scripture on laughter: Painting the Psalms Cherie Burbach, 2019-03-18 In Painting the Psalms, artist Cherie Burbach shares original, mixed-media paintings that contain a positive, faith-filled message. Each painting contains inspiration from the Psalms in some way, through the imagery, words, or emotion contained within the verses. Cherie uses a variety of mediums and techniques to create art that is filled with depth and whimsy. It is her hope that this book will inspire you to look at the Psalms in a new way so you can celebrate your faith and believe in the message. Some of the paintings were created during Cherie’s popular “Painting the Psalms” series of ecourses, where she demonstrates step-by-step progress from start to finish, including all the small details that make mixed media paintings come alive with texture and color. |
| scripture on laughter: 20 Ways To Enjoy Life More As A Christian Demetra Muingbeh, 2020-12-07 Are you truly enjoying life, or are you a miserable Christian? Jesus didn't die on the cross for us to just co-exist on earth with everyone else, until we die, held hostage by our circumstances. He died so that we would experience and truly enjoy life in Him. Being constantly stressed, angry, worried, depressed, and bitter people, in no way resembles what God intended for our lives to be as Christians. It's time to be proactive and become acquainted with the tools that God has already given us through His Word and Holy Spirit, so that we can break free of the things we allow to hinder our walk with Him, and our enjoyment of life. 20 Ways To Enjoy Life More As A Christian teaches biblical, yet practical changes you can start making in order to see significant improvements in your life, and begin to actually enjoy it the way God intended. As for those of you who think you are already enjoying life, you ain't seen nothing yet! |
| scripture on laughter: What Did Jesus Look Like? Joan E. Taylor, 2018-02-08 Jesus Christ is arguably the most famous man who ever lived. His image adorns countless churches, icons, and paintings. He is the subject of millions of statues, sculptures, devotional objects and works of art. Everyone can conjure an image of Jesus: usually as a handsome, white man with flowing locks and pristine linen robes. But what did Jesus really look like? Is our popular image of Jesus overly westernized and untrue to historical reality? This question continues to fascinate. Leading Christian Origins scholar Joan E. Taylor surveys the historical evidence, and the prevalent image of Jesus in art and culture, to suggest an entirely different vision of this most famous of men. He may even have had short hair. |
| scripture on laughter: Amazing Grace Kathleen Norris, 1999-04-01 A NEW YORK TIMES NOTABLE BOOK OF THE YEAR From the New York Times-bestselling author of The Cloister Walk, a book about Christianity, spirituality, and rediscovered faith. Struggling with her return to the Christian church after many years away, Kathleen Norris found it was the language of Christianity that most distanced her from faith. Words like judgment, faith, dogma, salvation, sinner—even Christ—formed what she called her scary vocabulary, words that had become so codified or abstract that their meanings were all but impenetrable. She found she had to wrestle with them and make them her own before they could confer their blessings and their grace. Blending history, theology, storytelling, etymology, and memoir, Norris uses these words as a starting point for reflection, and offers a moving account of her own gradual conversion. She evokes a rich spirituality rooted firmly in the chaos of everyday life—and offers believers and doubters alike an illuminating perspective on how we can embrace ancient traditions and find faith in the contemporary world. |
| scripture on laughter: Discovering Humor in the Bible Howard R. Macy, 2016-08-19 Some folks are surprised to find humor in the Bible; they don't think it has any. Others are embarrassed; they worry about being sacrilegious. Some laugh and don't tell anyone; others laugh out loud and share it with those around. However people respond, the Bible does, in fact, use humor. This book examines why it's there, why it matters, what it looks like, how to look for it, and what to do with it when you find it. The author's goal is to help people become better Bible readers, growing in both skill and insight. So the book doesn't just display a collection of museum pieces, showing the treasures of other explorers. Instead, it offers readers tools and field guides to become explorers discovering on their own. It's a fun how-to manual, dealing with what is routinely overlooked in teaching about biblical interpretation. Individuals will enjoy reading it, but it's also a rich resource for reading groups, Bible study groups, and classes. |
| scripture on laughter: Now, That's a Good Question! R. C. Sproul, 2011-08-24 In Now That’s a Good Question, R.C. Sproul answers more than 300 challenging questions about life and faith. Addressing doctrinal points and contemporary issues such as euthanasia, evolution, and abortion, Sproul covers more than three hundred topics in a personable, easy-to-read style that’s perfect for the lay person. New believers as well as those mature in the faith will find this book a solid resource for those challenging questions of life and faith. |
| scripture on laughter: Give Me an Answer Cliffe Knechtle, 1986-03-31 Cliffe Knechtle offers clear, reasoned and compassionate responses to the tough questions skeptics ask. |
| scripture on laughter: Holy Bible (NIV) Various Authors,, 2008-09-02 The NIV is the world's best-selling modern translation, with over 150 million copies in print since its first full publication in 1978. This highly accurate and smooth-reading version of the Bible in modern English has the largest library of printed and electronic support material of any modern translation. |
| scripture on laughter: Counterfeit Revival Hank Hanegraaff, 2001-07-28 Hank Hanegraaff documents the danger of looking for God in all the wrong places and goes behind the scenes into the wildly popular and bizarre world of contemporary revivalism. Hanegraaff masterfully exposes the stark contrast between these deeds of the flesh and a genuine work of the Spirit by contrasting modern revivals with the scriptural examples of God's movement among His people. |
| scripture on laughter: What is Reformed Theology? R. C. Sproul, 2016-09-13 What Do the Five Points of Calvinism Really Mean? Many have heard of Reformed theology, but may not be certain what it is. Some references to it have been positive, some negative. It appears to be important, and they'd like to know more about it. But they want a full, understandable explanation, not a simplistic one. What Is Reformed Theology? is an accessible introduction to beliefs that have been immensely influential in the evangelical church. In this insightful book, R. C. Sproul walks readers through the foundations of the Reformed doctrine and explains how the Reformed belief is centered on God, based on God's Word, and committed to faith in Jesus Christ. Sproul explains the five points of Reformed theology and makes plain the reality of God's amazing grace. |
| scripture on laughter: The Person of Christ Donald Macleod, 1998-11-06 Donald Macleod reinforces the church's historic doctrine of the person of Christ as a centerpiece for theological reflection. In the Contours of Christian Theology. |
| scripture on laughter: The Laughter of God Walter C. Lanyon, 2016-02-12 And then one day I heard the Laughter of God in the midst of me and within the world, and all was suddenly changed. Old patterns and ideas were shattered and passed away-a new loveliness of life was exposed to view ... How does one hear the Laughter of God? Walter Lanyon has a powerful message to share with the world, a message based firmly on the teachings of the Master, Christ Jesus, and the joy and promise it brings is evident throughout the book. In his unique style of speaking directly to the reader, the author reveals what is needed in order to hear this Laughter: One thing alone is necessary, and that one all-important point is your willingness to take your attention away from the limited human concept of yourself. The realization that God is not some mysterious power but is the very presence of Life within us and our universe brings instant freedom from the discords of human belief.One moment's recognition that you are the Son of the living God, and you have attuned your ear for the Laughter of God. When we awaken to this truth, we can no longer be limited, any more than the chick can be limited to its shell once it has outgrown it. There comes a New Day; the prisons of thought are opened, and we are set free.And one day you will laugh the Laughter of God, too. |
| scripture on laughter: How Can it be All Right when Everything is All Wrong? Lewis B. Smedes, 1982 Discusses how to find the courage and faith to meet life's greatest tragedies and sufferings, discover the power of belief, and experience the healing of God's gift of grace |
| scripture on laughter: Reformation Study Bible-ESV Robert Charles Sproul, Keith A. Mathison, 2010-11-01 More than fifty scholars, under R. C. Sproul, collaborated to produce this study Bible to help readers understand the great doctrines of the Christian faith. Published by Ligonier Ministries, trade distribution by P&R Publishing. |
| scripture on laughter: Laughter in the Walls Bob Benson, 1990-12-01 This is a collection of poems that tells some stories -- and the story -- of a growing family, of a loving father, of a deeply-held faith. |
| scripture on laughter: The Book of Psalms for Singing Crown and Covenant Publications, 1973-12-01 |
| scripture on laughter: Facing the Future Without Fear Lloyd John Ogilvie, 2002-01-01 Unprecendented terror attacks and the threat of future unimaginable horrors have struck fear in all of our hearts. Lloyd John Ogilvie has put his finger on our deepest need at this troubled time--the need to respond to our fears with courage. To help us muster our courage Ogilvie analyzes the global, inner and personal causes of fear. He illustrates his message with many well-crafted anecdotes and true stories. And he prescribes biblical and practical antidotes for all of our fears, leading us to God who alone can resolve them at their roots. |
| scripture on laughter: The First Book of Moses, Called Genesis , 1999 Hailed as the most radical repackaging of the Bible since Gutenberg, these Pocket Canons give an up-close look at each book of the Bible. |
| scripture on laughter: Scripture Proberbs , 1877 |
| scripture on laughter: Enduring Words David Guzik, 2020-11-07 It feels like our world is moving in new, uncertain directions and in unknown waters where you need a good anchor. In Jesus Christ, who is our Rock, we have hope as an anchor for the soul. To not be set adrift, one needs to stay connected to that anchor. I have found it is only by regular time in God's Word that it happens. We believe the promise recorded in 1 Peter 1:24-25: The grass withers, and its flower falls away, but the word of the LORD endures forever. Day by day, as we come to God's Enduring Word, He has wisdom, strength, and blessing to give us. We can weather storms and enjoy calm waters. We can grow in seasons of drought and bear a harvest for God's kingdom year-round. For 25 years I have prepared a weekly devotional. Here are 365 selected Scripture passages along with an inspirational, encouraging, and helpful thought. My prayer is that you would know and enjoy more and more of God's enduring word. In Jesus, David Guzik |
| scripture on laughter: The Content of Faith Karl Rahner, 2013 This volume consists of 174 selections grouped under eight headings, covering the full spectrum of Christian theology from theological anthropology to eschatology. The aim of the book is to guide people to Rahner's spirituality and thought, with as much authenticity and diversity as possible; to present Rahner's thought, to the extent that this is humanly feasible (there are some four thousand items in his bibliography). All the essential perspectives and dimensions of his theological work have been brought into play: his unique, experimental style of thinking; his thorough (but generally unobtrusive) familiarity with Scripture, the Church Fathers, and medieval theology; his way of defining concepts precisely; his critical objections in the area of Church life and politics; and the spiritual inexhaustibility of his intimate writings on prayer. The selections themselves are introduced by a forty-one-page portrait of Rahner by Bishop Lehmann, providing a masterful summary of his life and the history of his thought, a profile of the basic structure of his theology, and an appreciation of his incalculable contribution to life of the Church and the course of theology in the twentieth century. [Book jacket]. |
