“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” ~ George Bernard Shaw

Many of us have experienced great losses in the last two years. I lost two of my friends to cancer; several of my friends lost loved ones in unexpected tragedies; we’ve been isolated and experienced the worldwide chaos triggered by Covid. Under such circumstances to talk about fun may sound frivolous and out of touch. But I have good reason to believe joy is exactly what we need.

Research shows that fun releases endorphins which promote an overall sense of well-being. And happy people have better relationships with others. The Bible supports turning on the joy even in challenging circumstances.

Research shows that fun can trigger the release of endorphins which promote an overall sense of well-being. And happy people have better relationships with others. #joy, #thankful
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Joy Is Biblical!

From prison the Apostle Paul wrote:

“Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!” (Phil. 4:4 NLT).

King Solomon, the wisest of kings wrote:

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” (Pro. 17:22 NLT).

A Psalm addressing the injustice of the wicked getting away with their evil schemes includes this admonition.

Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires” (Ps. 37:4 NLT).

These biblical admonitions show this Thanksgiving is the perfect time to count blessings—not calories.

“And Nehemiah continued, ‘Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!’” (Neh. 8:10 NLT).

How do you add cheer to your day? I’ve been trying to corral my renegade thoughts and take delight in the gifts of the present moment.

Oswald Chambers said, “I am ever playing in God’s Presence as well as praying in it.” I like that. I’d love to hear how do you sprinkle joy on your day.

I pray your heart will overflow with thanksgiving this week and always!

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LINKUP is open. Join my friend @DebbiewWilson as we discuss the benefits of joy and play. Share your blog! #RechargeWednesday
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