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A Prayer for Playful Joy | Your Daily Prayer

This encouraging prayer reminds believers that joy, laughter, and childlike wonder are gifts from God. Reflecting on Psalm 126, readers are invited to slow down, rediscover playful joy, and celebrate the goodness of God in everyday...
May 19, 2026
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A Prayer for Playful Joy

Life can become so filled with responsibilities, pressure, and exhaustion that we slowly forget how to enjoy simple joy. Many adults quietly lose their sense of wonder beneath endless to-do lists and daily stress.

But Scripture reminds us that joy is deeply spiritual.

Psalm 126 describes God’s people overflowing with laughter and celebration after experiencing His restoration. Their joy became a testimony to everyone around them of God’s goodness and faithfulness.

Today’s prayer invites us to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover childlike joy again. God did not create us only to survive life — He also created us to experience His goodness, wonder, and delight.

Scripture

“Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy.” — Psalm 126:2

Prayer

Father, restore joy to my heart today. Help me slow down and notice the beauty, wonder, and goodness You place around me every day. Teach me to laugh freely, rest deeply, and enjoy the life You have given me. Let my joy become a reflection of Your love and goodness to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Originally published May 21, 2026.


headshot of author Whitney HoplerWhitney Hopler helps people discover God's wonder and experience awe. She is the author of several books, including the nonfiction books Wake Up to Wonder and Wonder Through the Year: A Daily Devotional for Every Year, and the young adult novel Dream Factory. Whitney has served as an editor at leading media organizations, including Crosswalk.com, The Salvation Army USA’s national publications, and Dotdash.com (where she produced a popular channel on angels and miracles). She currently leads the communications work at George Mason University’s Center for the Advancement of Well-Being. Connect with Whitney on her website at www.whitneyhopler.com and on her Facebook author page.

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