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WELCOME   TO   OUR   BIBLE   STUDY!

Welcome! So glad that you joined us today! This is our mid-week bible study! Pastor Linda will be leading this. Grab a cup of coffee and make yourself at home. Get ready to study God's wonderful word!

If you have any questions concerning this bible study, feel free to email me:
mountainrev@charter.net

The first thing I want to do is give you something that I found on another website that I thought was very good.

Keeping the Laughter Alive

The writer of Ecclesiastes stated there is “a time to weep and a time to laugh” (3:4, NIV). Given the nature and demands of ministry in an increasingly complex world, it’s not surprising that many Christian leaders are more inclined toward sadness than to joy. Handling church conflict, losing someone special, helplessly watching a marriage dissolve, facing an unexpected tragedy — all may give cause for tears.

There is also a time to laugh, and for good reason: “A cheerful heart is good medicine” (Proverbs 17:22). Medical studies confirm that humor and laughter can set off a number of positive physical, emotional, and social effects.

Not only can humor be a helpful personal coping mechanism, it is a vital ministry tool. It breaks down barriers between people and helps us connect with others. If you can share a laugh with someone, you have connected with that person. The defenses come down, and there is a desire to continue the dialog.

Many Christian leaders take themselves way too seriously. What about you? When was the last time you laughed so hard you cried? Or had a good belly laugh? The wise leader recognizes the importance of experiencing the healing benefits of laughter.