Title: Laugh Out Loud
Memorize: A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones. Proverbs 17:22 (Nkjv)
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:4–7 (Nkjv)
[4] Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!
[5] Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.
[6] Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
[7] and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Message:
Life can sometimes be filled with challenges, but when God fills your heart with joy, you will respond positively—even in difficult situations.
I remember a time when all we had left in the house was just one tuber of yam. My husband had gone on an outreach and was expected to return that evening. I planned to prepare pounded yam for him.
That morning, however, a woman came to me with an urgent need. Though it was painful, I gave her the only food we had left. Afterwards, I became worried about what my husband and children would eat when they returned home.
In that moment of anxiety, the Holy Spirit encouraged me to smile and begin to sing praises to God. I’m sure the devil thought I was acting strangely.
Before the end of that day, God surprised us—someone brought ten tubers of yam to our house!
My dear child, it’s normal to feel sad or frustrated when things don’t go your way, but don’t allow those feelings to steal your joy. Choose to laugh, smile, and rejoice in God.
Laugh at the little things to lighten your heart, and remind yourself that God is good. He is in control, and He is always working things out for your good.
Action Point:
When you face a difficult situation today, choose to laugh, smile, and rejoice—knowing that God has got you.
Bible Quiz:
God is still ________, and working things out for your good.
Answer: in control
Hymn 9: My Soul Is So Happy in Jesus
My soul is so happy in Jesus,
For He is so precious to me;
His voice it is music to hear it,
His face it is heaven to see.
Refrain:
I am happy in Him,
I am happy in Him;
My soul with delight
He fills day and night,
For I am happy in Him.
He sought me so long ere I knew Him,
When wand’ring afar from the fold;
Safe home in His arms He hath bro’t me,
To where there are pleasures untold.
Refrain:
His love and His mercy surround me,
His grace like a river doth flow;
His Spirit, to guide and to comfort,
Is with me wherever I go.
Refrain:
They say I shall some day be like Him,
My cross and my burden lay down;
Till then I will ever be faithful,
In gathering gems for His crown.
Bible In One Year: Matthew 9:18–38; Genesis 27–28
Authors: Pastor E. A. Adeboye and Pastor Folu Adeboye