God Laughs Too—Finding Joy in the Journey
Let’s be real for a second: why do we, as Christians, sometimes act like faith is supposed to be this super serious, no-fun-allowed, always-sit-up-straight kind of thing? It’s almost like we’ve convinced ourselves that joy is optional instead of essential. But here’s the truth—God created laughter, fun, and joy for a reason. He didn’t just give us the ability to smile and laugh so we could keep it locked away like some kind of spiritual emergency kit. No, joy is meant to be a part of the journey.
Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” That’s not just a cute Pinterest quote—it’s a reminder that joy is actually good for your soul. And I don’t know about you, but I’d rather not have dry bones.
Think about it: Jesus wasn’t some grumpy guy who walked around handing out rules like a divine hall monitor. He went to parties! He turned water into wine at a wedding, for crying out loud. He hung out with tax collectors, fishermen, and all kinds of “sinners” who probably weren’t sitting around in solemn silence the whole time. Jesus knew how to have a good time, and He knew that joy was contagious.
Somewhere along the way, though, we’ve turned faith into this heavy, joyless thing. We walk around like we’re carrying the weight of the world on our shoulders, forgetting that Jesus already carried it for us. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit, not a “nice-to-have.” It’s right up there with love, peace, and patience. God doesn’t just want us to endure life; He wants us to enjoy it.
So, when’s the last time you laughed so hard you cried? Or did something just for the fun of it? If it’s been a while, this is your sign to change that. Go do something fun this week—guilt-free. Watch a movie that makes you laugh until your sides hurt. Play a game with your kids where you don’t care who wins. Eat dessert first. (Yes, I said it—start with the cheesecake!)
Take a walk outside and marvel at the ridiculous creativity of God. I mean, He made giraffes. GIRAFFES. Their necks are like 80% of their body. If that’s not a God with a sense of humor, I don’t know what is.
Here’s the thing: your joy is a testimony. When people see you living with a cheerful heart, it points them to the God who created joy in the first place. It shows them that faith isn’t just about rules and rituals—it’s about life, and life to the full.
So, what’s one fun thing you’re going to do this week—just because God made you to enjoy life? Let me know—I might just steal your idea.
And remember: God laughs too. So go ahead, find the joy in the journey. It’s good medicine for the soul.