Living Free - October 21, 2011
Do Real Christians Laugh?
Today's Scripture
Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Philippians4:4 NLT
Thoughts for Today
As Christians, one of our greatest desires is to share the message of Christianity with others. Yet sometimes unbelievers don't want to hear our message because they perceive Christians as pessimistic, suspicious, critical, judgmental, cranky people. And, sadly, probably all of us are guilty of at least one or two of these characteristics from time to time.
But God tells us to be joyful and loving, to fill our lives with laughter. He knows that when we do this, we will be happier and healthier ... and a better testimony of his love.
Consider this...
What are some ways we can live our lives with more laughter? Well, for one thing most of us should stop taking ourselves so seriously. It's ok to spend some time just having fun!
Another step toward more laughter is to hang around happy people. Laughter really does seem to be contagious.
Most of us need to simplify our lives and avoid getting bogged down with busyness. Being over-tired and over-stressed can quickly rob us of our joy.
As we learn to trust God in every area of our lives and allow his joy to fill us to overflowing, our lives will begin to reflect his love to others ... and then they might want to hear more about this thing called Christianity.
Father, help me to always be full of joy in you. Help others to see the joy of Jesus in me so that they might want to meet Him. 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.
We hope these devotions are a blessing to you and to others in your life. We are happy to provide them for you at no cost, but thought you might want to consider a donation to help our ministry with the expense involved. You can safely donate through our website by going here
Thank you!
Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More
PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. 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. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.
