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. --Psalm 28:7

In American history, Abraham Lincoln is lauded for his dynamic leadership during the Civil War. He’s praised for the eloquent words of his Gettysburg address. And he’s immortalized as the man who freed the slaves.

Abraham Lincoln, though, is not so well known for his own private battle with severe depression or for his wonderful remedy to his personal problem: laughter.

For example, Lincoln often told the story of two women who spread rumors in Washington about Confederate President Jefferson Davis and himself.

These women had a conversation comparing the virtues and potential of the two leaders. One said to the other, “I think Davis will succeed because he’s a praying man.” The other relied, “But so is Lincoln.”

“Yes, but when Abraham prays, the Lord will think he’s joking!”

Abraham Lincoln had a terrific sense of humor…and he was able to find joy during times when there wasn’t a whole lot to laugh about.

What about you? Are you able to find joy and laughter even when your circumstances seem bleak?

Nehemiah 8:10 says, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Take comfort and find joy in the knowledge that Almighty God, the Creator of the universe, loves you.

Prayer Challenge: Praise God by singing a hymn or a chorus and ask the Lord to allow His joy to radiate in you in all circumstances.