Sunday, February 9, 2025

Do you love to laugh? Have you ever considered that laughter is part of God’s plan for us? 

Sometimes we get caught up in what we think church is supposed to look like and forget that laughter can be a part of it. 

Psalm 146:5
But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is in the Lord their God.

Our faith should be one of joy. And who doesn’t want more of that? It's a fantastic way to introduce people to Jesus and the life-changing adventure with him. That’s why we do the Preach Off every year! It provides an opportunity to laugh, have fun, and learn about God’s Word. Each service is unique as the competitors don’t know what verses they will get. They are different every time! 

The LIO will be unique this week, too. Each writer was given their own verse from which to build a devotion to share God’s truth with you.

Today, set aside time to seek God and consider where he’s calling you. Ask yourself if people sense joy or burden when they encounter you. Then respond to the following questions and reflect on how you can take a step or two forward to deepen your connection with him.

Discussion Questions:
Ice breaker: What is your favorite part of the Super Bowl?

Why do people often think Christianity is burdensome?

Read Matthew 28:19-20. What do you learn from these verses? How can laughter and joy help accomplish this?

What is one way you can show the joy of following Jesus to others?

Who is one person you can be intentional about pouring into and sharing Jesus with? 

Prayer:
Lord, you do not invite people into a life of burden but one of freedom and joy. Yet, I do not always live that way. Today, help me be joyful because my hope is in you! Put someone in my path whom I can introduce to the love, peace, and saving grace you offer, and give me the boldness to share the Good News of Christ with them. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:
Romans 15:4
Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.

This post was written by Kelly Pagel, Director of the LivingItOut.