Rejoice In Hope

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:4-7

Effective prayer must be mixed with rejoicing. God wants to see joy in your life. It is surprising that some Christians find it difficult to understand why they should rejoice in the presence of God. God is not nervous at all when we pray and cry to him as some erroneously believed. He can hear all of us at the same time. In fact, if you don’t like to shout, you may find it odd when you get to heaven. It is not wrong to “shout to” the Lord but you “shout at” the devil.

I have seen instances when the Joy of the Holy Ghost came upon individuals and many would laugh till the service ended, to the extent that they had to be taken to their houses. That was the Holy Spirit laughter; laughing your way to breakthrough, exuberant outburst of joy. Some of such people often testify of their miraculous healings, even without praying for them.

If you like to pray, there might be moments in your prayer life that you will also laugh in the Spirit. At such times, if God opens your eyes, you will see little demons fleeing in terror.

He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision - Psalm 2:4

One of the manifestations of the Holy Spirit is holy laughter. Such instance of Joy is essential. We need joy to stay strong. Supernatural joy is essential for effective prayer so do not allow the devil to take away your joy. The oil of joy is an antidote to the spirit of mourning which is responsible for depression, suicide, and distress.