UNCOMMON LAUGHTER

Bible Study: UNCOMMON LAUGHTER
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
Psalm 126:1-3 – "When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream. Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The Lord hath done great things for them. The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad."

Supporting Texts:
Genesis 21:1-7
Job 8:21
Ecclesiastes 3:4
Isaiah 61:3
Luke 6:21

INTRODUCTION:
Uncommon laughter is a joyful response that arises from a deep sense of divine intervention, breakthrough, or fulfillment of promises. It is a laughter that defies circumstances, reflecting the joy of the Lord in the midst of trials and tribulations. This study explores the significance of uncommon laughter in the lives of believers, how it manifests, and the blessings it brings. It serves as a reminder that God is able to bring joy and laughter even in the most challenging situations.

1. THE SOURCE OF UNCOMMON LAUGHTER
Uncommon laughter originates from the Lord, reflecting His faithfulness and ability to turn situations around.

a) Divine Intervention: When God intervenes in our circumstances, it results in joy and laughter (Psalm 126:1-3).

b) Fulfillment of Promises: Laughter often follows the realization of God’s promises, as seen in the birth of Isaac (Genesis 21:6).

c) God’s Power in Our Weakness: God delights in showing His strength through our weaknesses, leading to laughter where there was once despair (2 Corinthians 12:9).

d) Laughter as a Form of Worship: When we experience God’s goodness, our laughter becomes a form of worship and praise (Psalm 100:2).

Biblical Example:
Hannah experienced uncommon laughter when she finally bore Samuel after years of barrenness, recognizing God’s faithfulness (1 Samuel 2:1).

2. UNCOMMON LAUGHTER IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY
Uncommon laughter can arise even in the midst of difficult circumstances, demonstrating God’s sustaining joy.

a) Joy in Trials: The presence of the Lord can transform our sorrow into joy, even in trials (James 1:2-3).

b) Strength through Joy: Joy and laughter can be sources of strength that enable us to overcome challenges (Nehemiah 8:10).

c) Testimony to Others: Our laughter in adversity can serve as a testimony to others of God’s faithfulness and goodness (1 Peter 3:15).

d) Finding Joy in Every Season: There is a time for every purpose, including a time to laugh even in sorrow (Ecclesiastes 3:4).

Biblical Example:
Job, after enduring severe trials, was restored and blessed, leading him to laugh in joy (Job 8:21).

3. UNCOMMON LAUGHTER AND DIVINE TURNAROUND
When God turns our situation around, it often results in laughter that reflects His goodness and mercy.

a) God’s Restoration: The turning of our captivity leads to laughter and rejoicing (Psalm 126:1-3).

b) Celebrating God’s Goodness: A divine turnaround results in a celebration of God’s great works in our lives (Isaiah 61:3).

c) Rejoicing in Victory: Laughter accompanies the victories we experience through Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14).

d) Prophetic Laughter: Sometimes, laughter can be a prophetic declaration of what God will do (Isaiah 54:1).

Biblical Example:
The Israelites laughed and sang after crossing the Red Sea, witnessing God’s mighty hand (Exodus 15:1-2).

4. THE POWER OF UNCOMMON LAUGHTER
Uncommon laughter possesses the power to heal, transform, and uplift both ourselves and those around us.

a) Healing Through Laughter: Laughter can bring physical and emotional healing, as it releases stress and tension (Proverbs 17:22).

b) Building Community: Shared laughter strengthens relationships and fosters unity among believers (Philippians 2:2).

c) Encouragement in Difficult Times: A joyful heart encourages and uplifts those who are downcast (Proverbs 12:25).

d) Influencing the Atmosphere: Uncommon laughter can change the atmosphere around us, bringing light into darkness (Matthew 5:14).

Biblical Example:
Jesus brought joy and laughter to gatherings, turning mourning into celebration (John 2:1-10).

5. CULTIVATING AN ATTITUDE OF UNCOMMON LAUGHTER
As believers, we are called to cultivate a spirit of joy that leads to uncommon laughter.

a) Choose Joy Daily: We must intentionally choose joy in our daily lives, regardless of circumstances (Philippians 4:4).

b) Focus on God’s Goodness: Remembering God’s past faithfulness leads to laughter and joy in the present (Psalm 103:2).

c) Surround Yourself with Joy: Being around joyful people and environments fosters laughter and positivity (Proverbs 13:20).

d) Engage in Worship: Worshiping God in spirit and truth can lead to an overflow of joy and laughter (Psalm 100:4).

Biblical Example:
David danced before the Lord with all his might, expressing his joy and laughter in God’s presence (2 Samuel 6:14).

CONCLUSION:
Uncommon laughter is a profound expression of joy that comes from God, reflecting His faithfulness and the blessings He pours into our lives. It serves as a reminder that regardless of our circumstances, we can find joy in the Lord. As we embrace this uncommon laughter, we can encourage others and testify of God’s goodness, transforming not only our own lives but also the lives of those around us.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, fill my heart with uncommon laughter that reflects Your joy and goodness.

2. Father, help me to find joy in every circumstance and to celebrate Your faithfulness.

3. Lord, turn my mourning into joy and fill my mouth with laughter.

4. Father, restore to me the joy of my salvation, and let me laugh in Your presence.

5. Lord, give me strength to rejoice even in difficult times.

6. Father, let my life be a testimony of Your goodness and grace.

7. Lord, surround me with people who bring joy and laughter into my life.

8. Father, help me to cultivate an attitude of joy and thanksgiving.

9. Lord, let my laughter be a source of encouragement to others around me.

10. Father, may Your joy overflow in my life and lead me to uncommon laughter.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that uncommon laughter will fill your heart and home in this season.

2. God will turn your sorrow into joy, and you will laugh again.

3. I decree that you will experience divine interventions that lead to joyful celebrations.

4. Your life will be a testimony of God’s faithfulness, bringing laughter to those around you.

5. I declare that every heaviness will be lifted, replaced by the joy of the Lord.

6. You will find joy in unexpected places, and your heart will be filled with laughter.

7. I decree that your laughter will be contagious, bringing joy to others.

8. God will surprise you with blessings that lead to uncommon joy and laughter.

9. I declare that every trial will lead to a testimony filled with laughter and joy.

10. Your days of sorrow are over; uncommon laughter is your new portion in Christ.