“A cheerful disposition is good for your health; gloom and doom leave you bone-tired.” Proverbs 17:22 MSG
A seasoned military general would not wait for an attack to commence before constructing fortifications or building a castle for defense. Instead, they would proactively build these structures in anticipation of any potential threats. This strategic approach stems from their extensive training, which enables them to envision and prepare for future invasions.
The Word of God shows us that there’s an enemy moving around like a roaring lion looking for prey to devour. “Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour” (1 Peter 5:8 AMPC).
As a Christian, it’s important to understand that there will be an attack from the enemy one day. To prepare for this, we must build strongholds. Our theme Scripture teaches us that a cheerful disposition is one way to build strongholds for the health of our bodies.
“Take a decisive stand against him and resist his every attack with strong, vigorous faith. For you know that your believing brothers and sisters around the world are experiencing the same kinds of troubles you endure” (1 Peter 5:9 TPT). Be intentional and take a decisive stand against the devil by laughing, singing songs of praise to the Lord, and dancing.
When we laugh, we express the joy that’s inside our spirit. Laughter is a divine strategy to ward off enemies. It fortifies the body against sicknesses and diseases. This year, laugh every day, even if it doesn’t make sense. Many times, it won’t, but just laugh.
PRAYER
Precious Father, I thank You for the joy of the Lord that fortifies my body and strengthens my spirit. I choose joy daily through praise and laughter, resisting every attack of the enemy. My health is preserved, my strength renewed, and my life secured by divine joy, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
DEEPER REFLECTION
Proverbs 18:14 CEV
Being cheerful helps when we are sick, but nothing helps when we give up.
Psalms 28:7 NIV
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.
Nehemiah 8:10 NKJV
Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Genesis 5-6, Matthew 3
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Genesis 3, Matthew 2:1-12
