On Sunday, December 15, 2024, Pastor Mathew Eleojoh James, of Solemn Faith International Church, located at Road 21, Plot 14, Federal Housing Estate, Woji, Port Harcourt, delivered an inspiring sermon titled The Mysteries of Laughter.
Drawing from scriptural references such as Psalm 126:1-3 and Proverbs 17:22, Pastor Matthew explored the profound spiritual significance of laughter in the life of a believer.
The message began with a fundamental assertion that God
Himself is a laughing God, supported by references from scriptures like Psalm 2:4, Psalm 37:13, and Psalm 59:6.
Pastor Matthew emphasized that laughter is an essential aspect of God’s nature, which He desires His children to emulate.
This divine attribute was further illustrated through Sarah’s testimony in Genesis 21:6 and the joyful expression in Psalm 126:2.
Pastor Matthew explained that laughter is a choice believers must consciously make, irrespective of their circumstances.
He cited the example of Joseph in Genesis 40:6-7, who maintained a joyful disposition despite his trials.
The sermon also delved into the various types of laughter mentioned in the Bible, including mockery or insultive laughter, as seen in scriptures like Genesis 21:6, 2 Kings 19:21, and Nehemiah 2:19.
Self-satisfying laughter, another type, was exemplified by Abraham and Sarah’s reaction to the promise of a son in Genesis 17:17 and Genesis 18:12-13.
However, Pastor Matthew highlighted God-given laughter as the most profound, a joy that flows from divine intervention, as reflected in Genesis 21:6 and Psalm 126:1-3.
He elaborated that God-given laughter arises when one’s captivity is overturned, as shown in Psalm 126:1-3, or when miraculous, dream-like events unfold, as in Genesis 21:1-6.
It is also experienced during seasons of great blessings or harvests, supported by scriptures such as Joel 2:15 and Ecclesiastes 10:19.
Pastor Matthew then outlined ways to provoke divine laughter, urging believers to recognize its source in God and remain sensitive to divine timing.
He drew examples from Genesis 18:1-5 and Ecclesiastes 3:4 to emphasize that aligning with God’s purpose unlocks seasons of joy. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of love in cultivating an atmosphere of laughter, referencing John 15:9 and Hebrews 13:1-2.
In conclusion, the sermon included a collection of thought-provoking quotes on laughter, illustrating its transformative power. Pastor Matthew reminded the congregation that laughter is not just a natural expression but a divine tool for overcoming sorrow, healing the soul, and fostering meaningful connections.
The message left the congregation with a renewed understanding of the spiritual depth of laughter, inspiring them to embrace joy as a gift from God and a reflection of His nature.
