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Scripture References:
• Psalm 2:4
• Job 5:21-23
• Job 8:20-22
• Proverbs 17:22
• Psalm 126:2
We've all heard the expression laughter does a body good! But what is it about a
light chuckle, or a heartfelt guffaw, that's considered healthy or therapeutic?
Does it relieve stress, promote health, or increase lifespan? Yes, yes, and yes!
According to About.com, laughter reduces the level of stress hormones such
as cortisol, epinephrine, adrenaline, and dopamine, while simultaneously increasing
the level of health-enhancing hormones like endorphins and neurotransmitters (stress.about.com).
Every Sunday I see masses of stressed-out Christians who look like they've been
sucking lemons. They can barely smile, let alone laugh, because they're so uptight
with the cares of this world. That's why I incorporate humor into my sermons. Because
as stress among Americans continues to levitate, laughter is a free cure-an internally
produced remedy that combats stress and its affects.
Furthermore, if you're interested in living a long, healthy life, laughter will
effortlessly help you achieve your goal. In an article on About.com, Top 10 Ways
to Protect Your Beauty as you Age, Mark Stibich, Ph.D., supports this fact,
saying, "Laughing and smiling can also help you to live longer. A positive attitude
tells your body that 'everything is okay' and your body responds with the benefits
of relaxation" (longevity.about.com). My confession is 120 years on this
earth, so I make sure to laugh every chance I get!
In addition to laughter's ability to relieve stress and promote relaxation, a recent
study by cardiologists at The University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore,
found that laughter, along with a sense of humor, may protect against a heart attack
(umm.edu/features/laughter.htm). Michael Miller, M.D., Director of the Center for
Preventative Cardiology at the University of Maryland, says, "The old saying that
'laughter is the best medicine' definitely appears to be true when it comes to protecting
your heart." The Bible also says that a merry heart is like medicine. With
heart disease being one of the leading causes of death in Americans, it's nice to
know that we can laugh about it-literally.
How often do you laugh? Two, three, four times a day? Or not at all? Are you someone
who finds it difficult to laugh, or do you willingly welcome every opportunity for
an animated chuckle? Your response could greatly impact your health, heart, and
emotional well-being. God said we should laugh in the face of destruction and famine.
Obviously He knew what a meaningful laugh would do for your heart, body, and soul.
So don't waste another episode of comic relief being stuffy and unresponsive. Don't
think twice about belting out a high-pitched cackle or a graceful giggle-laugh it
up!
— Dr. Creflo A. Dollar
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