Hearing is the process, function, or power of perceiving sound precisely: the unique sense by which noises and tones are received as stimuli. This meaning applies to our relationship with fellow men, but is different from God. We don’t use our physical ears to hear our spiritual God. We have to learn how to hear him from our hearts.
From that standard definition, the hearing takes time. It somehow takes patience and requires us to be stable mentally.
It has been the Trinity -God the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit’s plan to communicate with us. Genesis 5:1 “This is the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, He made him in His own likeness”.
The Godhead created us for a relationship. Like every relationship, this can work only if both partners listen to each other. The two parties must decide to hear and understand each other is saying. We can only maintain true communion with God if we hear his word.
It has been a challenge for humans to hear God and do what he expects us to do because we are physically and mentally busy. We don’t create time or open our hearts to listen to him, though he wants to speak to us. We are occupied with our lives and daily activities. As such, we often don’t hear God; thus, we make mistakes/sin against him.
Hearing alone is insufficient; we must do what we have heard (James 1:22–25). This means investing time to study God’s opinion about our lives. In this post, I will explain how we can hear from God using biblical examples.
And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.
What are the benefits of hearing God?
We improve our lives whenever we obey God’s principles.
When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.
Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. …”
Take care then how you hear, for to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he thinks that he has will be taken away.”
All Bible verses are from the English Standard Version.
Having encountered diligent Nigerians during my time in Cameroon and shared the classroom with them, I was already familiar with—and prepared for—the warmth of their jovial and welcoming nature. As someone who unapologetically holds Christian beliefs. I found myself drawn to a deeply enriching and spiritually invigorating experience: a church retreat at the Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN).
The Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN) is a renowned Christian megachurch founded in 1987 by Prophet T.B. Joshua in Lagos, Nigeria. Widely recognized for its vibrant worship services and global reach. SCOAN has become a spiritual destination for millions seeking healing, deliverance, and prophetic insight.
The church’s influence extends far beyond its physical location. Through live broadcasts and widely viewed videos showcasing miracles, personal testimonies, and acts of faith. These broadcasts have attracted a massive global audience. In addition, SCOAN is well known for its humanitarian work, community outreach initiatives. And international branches—efforts that reflect its commitment to meeting both spiritual and practical needs. This holistic approach to ministry has solidified SCOAN’s reputation as a beacon of hope, faith, and compassion in today’s Christian world.
How did I hear about SCOAN?
I can’t recall exactly how I first heard about Prophet T.B. Joshua, but I do remember that my introduction came through a negative remark. Despite this, I made a conscious decision to keep an open mind. And not allow someone else’s opinion to shape my perspective. In 2009, I met a few friends who regularly watched his live services on Emmanuel TV—every Sunday and on many weekdays as well. Curious, I began tuning in too, and before long, it became my favorite channel.
Through these broadcasts, I experienced a deep sense of spiritual renewal and growth. My perception of Prophet T.B. Joshua and his ministry transformed entirely, no longer filtered through secondhand criticism, but shaped by personal connection, spiritual reflection, and the undeniable impact of the messages I received.
How many times did I go to the Synagogue Church of all Nations?
I have visited the Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN) four times—first in 2011, then again in 2013, 2017, and 2019. Each trip was deliberately planned and deeply rewarding, representing important milestones in my Christian walk since becoming born again in 2002. These visits weren’t fueled by mere wanderlust; rather, they stemmed from a sincere desire for spiritual growth and renewal.
Participating in church retreats during these visits added profound depth to my experiences. Immersing myself in worship, quiet reflection, and meaningful fellowship in the heart of Lagos enriched my faith in unexpected ways. The powerful sense of unity and shared devotion among the congregation created a spiritual atmosphere that transcended nationality or geography, nurturing a sense of belonging that reached far beyond the walls of the church.
Sarah at the Synagogue Church of all nations in 2017
A Spiritual Haven in Lagos: My Journey to SCOAN’s Heartbeat
Commencing my journey, the central draw that has consistently pulled me in is the Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN)—an architectural marvel nestled in Ikotun-Egbe, Lagos.
Founded by the late Prophet Temitope Balogun Joshua, this colossal edifice stands as a living testament to his unwavering devotion to God. Guided by the Holy Spirit, Prophet T.B. Joshua’s life was marked by remarkable humility and obedience to God’s will.
Sundays at this monumental sanctuary are nothing short of a spiritual celebration. The vast expanse of the church, which seats several thousand, comes alive with worshipers—often numbering 50,000 or more.
Standing among the multitude, I felt the powerful sense of collective faith and reverence that permeated the air. The atmosphere radiated awe and joy—an unmistakable presence that could only be attributed to God.
What is the remarkable aspect about SCOAN?
One of the most remarkable aspects of SCOAN’s ministry is its global reach. Through Emmanuel TV, Sunday services are broadcast live, transcending borders and uniting millions of viewers across the world in shared worship and spiritual nourishment.
The worship sessions themselves are vibrant and soul-stirring. Joy-filled praise often lasts an hour or more, blending heartfelt music with deep spiritual connection. The entire environment pulses with happiness, energy, and divine presence.
Even as someone naturally reserved, I found it nearly impossible to stay still. The jubilant atmosphere compelled me to join in the singing and dancing—an expression of worship that felt both freeing and deeply personal.
As I reflect on my time within the grandeur of SCOAN, I’m reminded of the profound sense of unity and global fellowship it fosters. The legacy of Prophet T.B. Joshua continues to thrive through the lives of those who gather here and the countless others who are touched by his teachings around the world.
How do services look like?
Furthermore, my journey at SCOAN gave a profound and lasting boost to my faith, as I witnessed countless testimonies that defied natural explanation. These powerful accounts breathed life into the words of the Bible, transforming Scripture from ink on a page into lived, tangible experiences.
The connection between the miracles recorded in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles and my own reality became undeniably clear. Witnessing numerous deliverances and experiencing my own spiritual transformation deepened my understanding of God’s power and presence. It left me with an unshakable conviction: that the God of the Bible is not distant or dormant, but vibrantly alive and active today.
Sarah inside the SCOAN in 2019
What was my 2019 Synagogue Church of all Nations experience?
Adding to the wonder of my 2019 visit was the rare and deeply meaningful opportunity to visit the Prayer Mountain. Tucked away in a serene, garden-like space, this peaceful haven is suspended over a tranquil artificial lake and surrounded by trees—a sacred refuge that invites stillness and communion with God. Just a 20-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of Lagos, it felt like a world apart, perfectly designed for focused prayer and spiritual retreat.
The Prayer Mountain is home to the original small hut where Prophet T.B. Joshua used to pray long before the ministry reached global recognition. Despite the growth of SCOAN, he continued to frequent this quiet sanctuary—often choosing to remain unseen so visitors could direct their full attention to God, not to him.
With the gentle breeze wafting across the lake and the comforting shade of the trees. I entered a state of deep spiritual focus. Every second on my knees felt sacred—each moment a precious opportunity for intimate connection and heartfelt reflection with the Divine.
After one of the services, Prophet T.B. Joshua instructed the evangelists to announce a special meeting for all partners. At that time, I had been a financial partner for several years, even while living in Korea. Alongside hundreds of people from various countries, I followed the instruction—and I’m so glad I did.
We were informed that Prophet Joshua had personally authorized our group to visit the Prayer Mountain the following morning, a Monday. It was an unexpected blessing and one of the most cherished moments of my faith journey.
How was my prayer mountain experience?
We gathered at the church early that morning, each holding a special ticket that granted us access to a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual retreat. We were ushered onto SCOAN buses at no cost and transported to the Prayer Mountain. From 11 AM to 5 PM, we were immersed in an atmosphere of uninterrupted prayer, nourished with snacks and water, and gently encouraged to remain in communion with God throughout the day.
The hours passed swiftly—not because of distraction, but because the environment was saturated with the presence of the Holy Spirit. That April in 2019 was a particularly pivotal time in my life, as I stood at a crossroads in my career, needing divine direction after graduation. The Prayer Mountain offered the clarity I had been seeking.
At the end of the prayer session, the same buses returned us to the church premises—again, completely free of charge. Upon our arrival, we received uplifting gifts: Prophet T.B. Joshua’s books, a SCOAN tote bag, CDs, Morning Water, and a faith bracelet. Each item was a token of encouragement—freely given and deeply appreciated.
I left Nigeria filled with gratitude. My return to Cameroon was marked not just by souvenirs. But by a renewed sense of purpose, peace, and vision for the next phase of my journey.
What was the impact of the Synagogue Church of all Nations to Nigeria?
In cherished memory, Prophet T.B. Joshua remains one of Nigeria’s most revered spiritual figures. His life and ministry left an indelible imprint on the nation’s religious and cultural landscape, with a profound ripple effect felt across the globe. His influence extended far beyond the pulpit—redefining spiritual experience, global faith engagement, and even Nigeria’s tourism industry.
By 2014, the Nigerian Immigration Service reported that six out of every ten foreign travelers entering the country were destined for SCOAN. Pilgrims came from every corner of the world. Drawn by the hope of healing, deliverance, and divine encounter through the ministry. He was a man who truly feared God, living a life governed by the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
No words can fully capture the depth of blessings I received from God through his ministry. The spiritual growth I experienced far outweighed any material investment as a partner. I remain profoundly grateful for the opportunity to have been part of sharing God’s blessings through this unique calling.
Whats one key thing I still have with me today?
The undeniable truth is that the hand of God worked mightily through Prophet T.B. Joshua. This was evident in the countless miracles, deliverances, and transformed lives that continue to testify to God’s power and grace.
As New Telegraph aptly described it, SCOAN became “Nigeria’s biggest tourist attraction.” Likewise, journalist Ojewusi Sola recognized it as “the most visited destination by religious tourists in West Africa.”
Indeed, the legacy of Prophet T.B. Joshua lives on—in the hearts he touched. Also in the lives he changed, and the spiritual revival he helped ignite across continents.
What was the overall impact of visiting the SCOAN?
The pinnacle of my SCOAN experience was the personal encounters I had with Prophet T.B. Joshua himself. His warm smile, calm presence, and consistent encouragement to deepen my prayer life left an indelible mark on my heart. These moments were not only affirming of my faith. But also served as a powerful reminder of the value of personal guidance and spiritual mentorship.
As I reflect on my experiences at SCOAN and the Prayer Mountain, I am reminded of the transformative power of faith. The peace found in nature, and the grace found in the presence of a spiritual mentor. These sacred encounters enriched my spiritual walk. And deepened my awareness of the divine presence that permeates every corner of life.
How has that impacted my life ?
My personal journey has been profoundly shaped by the anointing and grace that radiated from Prophet Joshua. Though his physical presence has passed on, his influence endures. His sermons, teachings, and prayers continue to resonate through online platforms like YouTube. I still find comfort and inspiration today. The notes I took during his messages remain a living testament to the spiritual depth he instilled in me.
At its core, the Christian walk is a continual journey—an ongoing process of daily dependence on Christ. While I remain uncertain about whether I’ll ever return to SCOAN, I hold a deep sense of gratitude for the divine orchestration that allowed me to meet Prophet T.B. Joshua during his lifetime. I choose to stand firmly on the enduring truths of the gospel that he so passionately preached. More than that, I am inspired to live out his humanitarian legacy—by offering love, support, and help to those in need around the world.
In reflecting on the profound impact of Prophet T.B. Joshua, I am reminded that certain paths cross for a divine reason. His influence has left an unmistakable mark—one that continues to shape my spiritual journey and fuels my commitment to living a life of faith, purpose, and compassion.
My recommendation about visiting the church
Since the passing of Prophet T.B. Joshua in 2021, I have personally chosen to stop fellowshipping with SCOAN. While I continue to cherish all that I received through the ministry during his lifetime, I no longer feel a peaceful heart agreement with the direction it has taken under his widow. Out of honesty and conviction, I can no longer boast about or encourage anyone to visit the SCOAN as I once did. Instead, I encourage everyone to seek God with discernment.
It is entirely possible that Mama Evelyn Joshua has a divine calling to continue her husband’s legacy. However, during all my years attending services at SCOAN, I never once saw Prophet T.B. Joshua publicly indicate that she would take up the mantle. On the contrary, he was consistently seen praying for his disciples—the five prophets and prophetesses: Racine, Chris, Angela, Yinka, and Anna.
He often laid hands on them in public, which I personally understood as a symbolic act of impartation—a transfer of spiritual authority. It was evident that he sensed his time was drawing to a close, though he chose not to announce it. On numerous occasions, he entrusted his disciples with the pulpit, allowing them to preach and pray for the congregation in his stead. A notable example was the London crusade, where he sent them to minister in his absence. To me, these gestures were not random; they were deliberate, signaling his belief that God would continue the work through these individuals.
While I remain grateful for all that SCOAN once was and the role it played in my spiritual growth, I now walk forward in faith, prayerfully discerning the next chapters of my journey.
The current situation of the church
In 2022, Mama Evelyn Joshua officially declared herself the new head of the Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN). This announcement marked a turning point, resulting in a peaceful but definitive separation within the ministry. The prophets and prophetesses—once closely mentored by Prophet T.B. Joshua—chose to step away. Since then, they have gone on to thrive in their respective ministries around the world.
Except for Prophetess Angela, each of them has established their own ministries, and God has been using them powerfully. Through preaching the gospel, ministering deliverance, and demonstrating miracles, they continue to walk in the spiritual footsteps of Prophet T.B. Joshua—carrying forward the mantle in their unique callings.
What have decided to do?
I personally follow all four who are active online, but I’ve felt particularly drawn to Prophet Racine. Even before Prophet Joshua’s passing, I had a dream in which Racine preached the Word of God to me in great detail. That dream became a spiritual anchor for me. Over the past two years, I have been consistently blessed through his ministry. I follow his Bible reading plan and regularly watch his podcasts, which have nourished my spiritual life.
If you’re seeking spiritual growth, I encourage you to follow one or more of these ministers on social media. Their teachings, lives, and ministries continue to reflect the legacy of faith, humility, and power that marked their time under Prophet T.B. Joshua.
Below are links to their official blogs and platforms:
In the modern era, the term ‘absolute truth’ encompasses multiple interpretations. For some, it is deemed a virtuous quality, representing the essence of truthfulness. However, legal experts and philosophers define it as alignment with factual reality. Meanwhile, those with religious beliefs view it as an accepted, undeniable fact. The varied meanings highlight the intricate challenge of precisely defining this concept
This post is centered around defining truth from the Christian perspective. The TRUTH is a person. He is Jesus Christ. In his own words, in John 14:6, Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me”. This summarizes the essence of every character we might develop in our Christian lives. That goes to say, if we believe in Jesus, we will be truthful like him.
To further define Jesus as the TRUTH, John 1:14says, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
Referring to the Holy Spirit as the TRUTH also, Apostle John said, “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come”. John 16:13. This confirms the Trinity of the God Head-God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit of truth.
Absolute truth bible verses
In1 John 1:8, the Apostle John admonishes us to admit our former sinful nature. He said, “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.” This discourages pretending but encourages us to admit our mistakes whilst recognizing the power of Christ in us.
For further encouragement, he added in 1 John 3:18, “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” The truth here is related to sincerity and honesty as per character. How we treat people defines who we are.
For a more in-depth analysis explanation of how our relationship with the Holy Spirit defines our Christian life, Apostle John comments again in 1 John 4:6. Here, he says, “We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood”. This seems to be the litmus test for us to know who is a genuine and fake Christian. God can never lie.
Newspaper talking about absolute truth
What are the effects of being truthful?
We can indirectly preach the gospel if we maintain a truthful lifestyle.
Then the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the LORD from your mouth is the truth.” 1 Kings 17:24. Without going into a lengthy explanation of what happened to the woman in 1 Kings, it is safe to say, people will see Christ in us if we speak the truth. Regardless of the ministry where we know God has called us, we will be Christian examples only if we talk and do what God wants us to do. God always backs his word, so he will not let his promises go void. (Isaiah 55:11)
The Apostle Paul describes the Bible in 2 Timothy 2:15as the word of absolute truth. He said, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” This indirectly implies every other thing we focus on is not the truth. For instance, philosophy books shouldn’t be the foundation of our opinions. Our preaching or teaching, or ministry work should be found in the Bible. So we have to invest time in studying it thoroughly. That’s the only way we can appropriately share it with anyone.
What does absolute truth mean?
Speaking metaphorically inEphesians 6: 14, Paul connects truth to a belt. “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place.” Belts are used variously to secure or hold up clothing, such as trousers, shorts, and skirts. This means we can only be secure in our lives if we uphold the Word of God and Jesus Christ as the truth.
Demonstrating our eternal and spiritual lineage with Jesus, Apostle James wrote in James 1:18. “He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.” We have a family inheritance with Jesus Christ, and the word of absolute truth is the only language we are supposed to speak.
According to God’s designated timing, Jesus Christ’s coming on earth had to begin a new era from that of Moses. Emphasizing the difference, Apostle John said, “For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” This means that everything we do should be because of Jesus alone (Colossian 3:17)
Defining how we should worship God, Apostle John adds, “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” In other words, if we don’t abide by the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ when we worship God, we are performing vain exercises.
Given the bondage and captivity that the devil has captured in the world, everyone is seeking freedom. Quoting how we can be free, Apostle John remarks, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8: 32.
In Jesus’ final prayers, he prayed for all believers to live up to the truth. “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth”. John 17:17.
How should we pray?
When we begin praying, we have to always remember God is able to do everything He said.
Just like David, our daily prayer should be from the absolute truth of the Trinity in everything we do. Psalm 25: 5 “Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” We cannot survive a day without living by the Truth, as such we need to seek him daily.
Everything about God is faithful, and we have to acknowledge that as part of our worship every day.Psalm 119: 160 “All your words are true; all your righteous laws are eternal.” We see David did it, so we ought to do it too.
Finally, God comes only to those who believe him.Psalms 145: 18 “The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”
Therefore, God is truth, and we can live in truth if we abide with Him. Abiding means trusting and believing in him.
The Ethiopia National History Museum stands as a beacon of Ethiopia’s dedication to preserving its ancient tales and artifacts. Ethiopia’s historical legacy is etched in the very archives of human existence, as it ranks among the world’s oldest countries.
From the ancient days of the Bible, tracing back over 3 million years, Ethiopia is a treasure trove for archaeological research, an endeavor that seems boundless in its possibilities.
Ethiopia is truly unique in numerous aspects. It holds the distinction of being one of the only two African nations untouched by colonialism. Additionally, it boasts its own distinct calendar, time system, and alphabet. For instance, Ethiopians follow a 13-month calendar and march to the rhythm of their own clock.
Navigating the vibrant streets of downtown Addis Ababa, one can readily appreciate the beauty of many Ethiopians, often adorned with splendid curly hair. To satiate my curiosity about Ethiopia’s ancient narratives, I embarked on a captivating tour of the National History Museum. Amidst the array of fascinating exhibits, what particularly caught my eye were the captivating paintings depicting Christian history and the intricate African map, gracing the museum walls.
Ethiopian national museum premises
Surprisingly, all the descriptions in this history edifice are in English and Amharic languages.
As I strolled through the streets, I found that English was not widely spoken, which came as a surprise. However, considering the significant number of tourists in Ethiopia, it’s no wonder.
This post is dedicated to sharing my experience at this renowned tourist hotspot. A visit to the National History Museum was both enlightening and delightful, making it a must-see destination where you’re sure to enjoy your time.”
What is inside the Ethiopia national history museum?
Similar to many museums I’ve explored in various countries, Ethiopia’s National History Museum is housed in a massive building situated on the periphery of a spacious enclosed park.
As I entered through the main gate, which was a mere 3-minute stroll from the bustling main road, my attention was immediately drawn to the statues of historic icons scattered throughout the park-like surroundings.
The presence of trees and vibrant flowers lining the pavement didn’t quite evoke a strong sense of walking into a historical setting. However, the prominent military statues and displays of weaponry triggered my curiosity, making me ponder the victories and resilience of Ethiopia, a country that remarkably evaded the grip of colonization. This curiosity only intensified my desire to step inside and explore further.
From the main door to the upstairs section, there were banners with bolded words emphasizing the history of Ethiopia. Some of them read:
Million years of life and culture in Ethiopia.
Ethiopia in the fossil landscape of Africa.
Human evolution: the Ethiopian Record.
Prehistoric cultures.
And the World became African.
Early Hominids in Africa etc.
Ethiopia’s stance on the theory of human evolution is quite evident in the exhibits within the museum. Each section provides thorough historical explanations, complete with detailed information about the items on display and their respective dates.
Treasures inside the museum
The museum truly overflowed with historical artifacts, enveloping me in a nostalgic feeling akin to being back in a history classroom. Despite forgetting many of the dates on the prehistoric chart, the experience was captivating.
One particularly fascinating section showcased a grand, golden-like throne used by ancient kings, exuding an aura of regal history. The stone sculptures were equally intriguing, each displaying its unique artistry. In another section, old wooden sculptures meticulously carved into human forms highlighted the incredible dedication and patience of our ancestors.
However, there was a section in the well-lit museum that I found somewhat eerie. It featured skeletons meticulously arranged from fingernails to the head, forming a human-like silhouette. These remains belonged to both people and animals, leaving me still in awe of the remarkable work done by archaeologists to unearth and present such intricate findings.
Were you aware that May 2nd is designated as World Laughter Day? If not, consider this newfound knowledge. On this day, countless individuals assemble in person or virtually in major cities worldwide to unite through shared laughter and enjoy the pleasures of comedy. It undoubtedly promises an enjoyable experience.
Beyond the celebratory aspect, how frequently do you find yourself laughing? Daily laughter can surprisingly become a regular exercise if we allow it. In fact, it’s an intentional action, as we’ll explore in the explanations below.
Laughing is equated to feasting in the Bible. Proverbs 15:15: “For the despondent, every day brings trouble; for the happy heart, life is a continual feast.”
Wikipedia defines laughter as a pleasant physical reaction usually consisting of rhythmical, often audible contractions of the diaphragm and other parts of the respiratory system. In addition, it is a response to certain external or internal stimuli.
Laughter can arise from such activities as being tickled or from humorous stories or thoughts.
Is laughter in the Bible?
Wise King Solomon defined laughter inEcclesiastes 10:19 “A feast is made for laughter, wine makes life merry, and money is the answer for everything.
In addition, Job 39:22 says, “It laughs at fear, afraid of nothing; it does not shy away from the sword.” Retrospecting Genesis 21:6 Sarah said, “God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me.”
In reality, everyone has laughed several times. Laughter takes little or no effort to do. There is a common saying, “laughter is good medicine.” How true is that for you? Let’s find out how you can try this therapy.
What are the health benefits of laughter?
The health benefits of laughing are numerous. We will not discuss all of them in this post.
1. It releases natural feel-good chemicals
Given the high level of stress on these pandemic days, a good laugh will undoubtedly be a stress reliever. Some medical research has confirmed in the short term, if you laugh regularly, it doesn’t just lighten your load mentally; it actually induces physical changes in your body. That stimulates several organs in your body by enhancing your intake of oxygen-rich air.
Equally, it stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles and increases the endorphins released by your brain. In other words, it increases and decreases your heart rate and blood pressure.
Acceptably, extreme stress increases tension, laughter can also stimulate circulation and aid muscle relaxation. These both help to reduce some of the physical symptoms of stress.
2. It decreases pain
Did you know your body produces painkillers? I doubt you did. Now you know. Our bodies have natural God-given potential to ease the pain. When we laugh, it causes the body to produce its own natural painkillers.
Though this is a long-term effect, as medical researchers have affirmed, there is a massive benefit to laughing.
3. It increases personal satisfaction.
In everything we do, we expect to be happy and satisfied. It’s human nature to anticipate celebration and be applauded for doing something well. Medical reports have highlighted in the long run, if we laugh, it will make it easier for us to cope with difficult situations. Since everyone also wants to hang out with joyful people, it’s not rocket science to say laughter helps us connect with other people.
If God laughs, why shouldn’t we laugh?Psalm 2:4: “But the one who rules in heaven laughs.” Agreeably, it is not easy to laugh when we are unhappy about our lives, but we can pray to God for it. Job did it in his distress, you can too. I do it sometimes. Job 8:21: “He will once again fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.”
If laughter is your hobby, you will not be afraid of the future. Proverbs 31:25: “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.”
4. Mood swing can affect laughter
We all can be and have been moody several times because of sad things happening in our lives or around us. Sadly, many people around the world are experiencing depression, either because of job instability or the COVID-19 pandemic. We cannot deny this hard time can cause us to be stressed and feel anxious.
But laughter makes us feel happier. It improves our self-esteem and gives us a positive outlook on life. Even in captivity, the children of Isreal choose to sing joyfully because they know their joy is from God and not from the situation. Psalm 126:2: “We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, ‘What amazing things the Lord has done for them.’”
I am not insinuating you should pretend to laugh at all times. That is unrealistic, and I don’t do that every day too. It’s ok to accept your challenging situation as a temporal event but choose to laugh as often as possible.
There is a time for everything. Ecclesiastes 3:4: “A time to cry and a time to laugh.” God is always there in all seasons of our lives. We just need to trust him at all times. Luke 6:21: “God blesses you who are hungry now, for you will be satisfied. God blesses you who weep now for in due time you will laugh.”
“Consider your trials as your friend” Prophet TB Joshua. That doesn’t seem like what anyone wants to do. Yes, it is, but that’s what the Bible encourages us to do. 1 Peter 4:13: “Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world.”
Recommendation
Doctors advise us to make it a habit to share a laugh. Yes, laughter can be a habit. This means choosing to spend time with friends who make you laugh. And then return the favor by sharing funny stories or jokes with those around you as often as possible.
Reading jokes from books or watching comedy shows on YouTube is one easy way to keep laughter updated. We all need humor; share it, and choose it. Make our world a better place.
In conclusion, laughter can be healing, it can be relaxing, and at times it can be just what we need to get through the day. Try it daily and give me feedback. I haven’t been perfect, but I try it almost daily.
Reflection questions
When and why did you last laugh out loud?
How do you make people laugh?
Do you have an infectious laugh?
When was the last time you giggled?
How easy do you find it to laugh at yourself?
What was the last joke you heard?
What comedy series makes you laugh the most?
For more uplifting faith study articles, click here.
