A Gift of Laughter
Tyler Myers (Ohio, USA)




TODAY'S READING
1 Corinthians 10:10-13


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
God’s gift of laughter lightens my load.


PRAYER FOCUS
People working on assembly lines





God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:19 (KJV)



It was an awful day at work. I was tired and stressed from having to work at a fast pace. My earplugs were uncomfortable, and the loud, rumbling machines only made my headache worse. Our assembly line was nearly 10 parts behind with more parts coming down the line. I considered just giving up on the day and catching a ride home.

Instead, during my first break of the day I prayed, “God, I’ve made it this far. Please help me make it through the rest of my shift.” Returning to the line after break, the situation hadn’t improved. We were working to catch up, but it didn’t matter. When it was time for my second break, I felt ready to explode! This time I prayed, “God, I’ve had all I can take. Please help me and the others. If you don’t do something, Lord, I’m going to lose it!”

I trudged back to the line where my co-workers were still scrambling to catch up, but to no avail. But instead of being consumed again by frustration, I started laughing! There was no good reason to laugh, but laughter flowed out of me like a rushing stream. And the peace I felt was liberating!

When my shift was over, 10 parts were left on the floor for third shift, and the boss was not pleased. But my earlier frustration was gone. The gift of laughter God had given me was just what I needed to carry me through when I felt I couldn’t go on.



TODAY'S PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of laughter that makes life so much more bearable and enjoyable. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.