By Robin Wiley
I like to laugh. Sometimes I strongly dislike the way I laugh. When I find something humorous – a loud and boisterous sound comes out of my mouth, followed by a low giggle. I also love to laugh so hard that I cry and can barely breath. Tickle my funny bone so speak. I think God has a very good sense of humor. He has to, to put up with us sinners all the time.
A happy heart is like good medicine. — Proverbs 17:22 ICB
Laughter is a language that everyone speaks. You do not need to learn how to laugh either. It’s a skill we are born with and use since birth. Real laughter is one of those things that is just spontaneous. We react with laughter even before we register in our brain that it’s funny.
Laughter is contagious – in a good way (unless you are in church…heehee!) If you hear someone laughing, chances are, you’ll soon be laughing too. It happens often with our kiddos. One person will snicker while we are praying and then a couple of other giggles join on in. Laughter is catchy and hard to ignore.
Some people even claim laughter can heal you — like medicine. Scientists aren’t sure about that, because it cannot be proven, but we do know for a fact – that laughter is fun, it helps us make friends, and makes us feel good inside.
Back to God’s sense of humor – I think laughter is a gift to all of us. It heals our hearts and gives us joy. How awesome are those feelings?!
God tells us there is a time to laugh (Ecclesiastes 3:4). There is a huge difference between laughing with someone and laughing at someone. Don’t use laughter like a weapon to hurt others or to tear them down. Always try to treat others the way you want them to treat you (Luke 6:31). Great words of advice!
Laughter is a gift, and it’s meant to be shared. When I was growing up, I thought myself to be very shy. So in order to make friends, I decided I needed to make them laugh – not necessarily at me but laugh in general. I found being comical and joking around was a conduit for friendship. It is something that stuck with me all my life. I believe I do have a great sense of humor, but I have been trying to be more mindful of being loving and kind with my humor so as not to let my words hurt but only bring joy. It can be a struggle sometimes, but with Christ’s example of humility as a role model and His constant grace, we are all in good hands! Share a smile or your laughter with someone this week!
Father God, thank You for the gift of laughter. Help me to use it in a way that makes You smile and only brings joy. Continue to watch over my steps and guide me to see others only as you see them. In Jesus name – Amen.