A Good Medicine

“He will once again fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.” Job 8:21

I’ve been reminded of something recently. I firmly believe that laughter is a potent medicine! The last few weeks as I battled a tummy bug and the after effects of severe weakness, I haven’t been very happy. I certainly haven’t been laughing, or even smiling. I’ve been sad, I guess, because I’ve felt so awful.

When I was reminded of the “medicinal” effects of laughter, I made a conscious effort to smile and laugh. It truly helped! I’m still struggling with weakness, but the heaviness of it all has lifted. It’s a new beginning of joy for me!!

I’ve known this principle so well—and seen it in action—but had forgotten. Many years ago, our daughter was very sick for over six years. We thought of the truth of laughter being a good medicine. We looked for funny movies to watch and light-hearted, fun books to read. It was amazing how much it helped.

Laughter has good physical effects, too. It reduces stress. It increases the good cholesterol. It decreases inflammation in our arteries, and it reduces anxiety. Laughter helps fight viruses and bacteria. It boosts the immune system. There are whole lists of how it helps us physically.

If you know someone who’s sick, send them a fun card, a joke, or a humorous story. Hopefully it will bring a smile to help them.

“Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, ‘The Lord has done great things for them’” (Psalm 126:2).

Laughter brings joy. Joy opens the door to worship. And worship always ministers to our hearts and our bodies. Laughter is a gift from the Lord. Have a good laugh today—enjoy some guilt-free goodness from the Lord!

Father, we have You to thank for the goodness you give to us each day. Help us to see those “goodnesses” and blessings, that we may enter into Your joy. Lift the spirits of those who are sad, sick, or weak today, and let them laugh again. Amen.