Let's Talk About Laughter

 

By: Paula Short

I’m so easily amused, and I love to laugh— You know, those belly laughs, the ones that make you have to use the bathroom. I know you know the ones I’m talking about. 

 

 Laughter is a gift from God that brings joy, healing, and restoration to our lives. It is a powerful tool that can help us overcome difficult situations and find inner peace. It’s important to embrace and celebrate the gift of laughter that God has given us.  

 

“Shout out praises to the Lord, all the earth. Break out in a joyful shout and sing!” Psalm 98:4— NET 

 

One of the benefits of laughter is that it helps us to reduce stress and anxiety. When we laugh, our bodies release endorphins, which are natural painkillers that create a sense of well-being.  

 

This can help us to feel more relaxed and less stressed, which can have a positive impact on our overall health and well-being. Another benefit of laughter is that it helps us to connect with others. 

 

“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.” Proverbs 17:22— NASB 

 

 Laughter is contagious, and when we share a good laugh with others, we create a bond that can help to strengthen our relationships. This is especially important in today's world, where so many people feel isolated and disconnected from others. Finally, laughter can help us to deepen our faith and trust in God. When we laugh, we are reminded of the joy and love that God has for us.  

 

The Bible often speaks of laughter. The number of times the word "laughter" is mentioned in the Bible ranges from 20 to 40, depending on the translation.

 

Here are some examples of how laughter is mentioned in the Bible: 

— Sarah laughed when she was told she would have a child in her old age. (Genesis 18:12) 

— The psalmist writes that "the Lord laughs at the wicked." (Psalm 2:4) 

— Jesus says that "those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy." (Psalm 126:5) 

— The Bible says that "a cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." (Proverbs 17:22) 

 

 

Let’s Reflect 

We are reminded that, no matter what challenges we face, God is always with us, and He wants us to experience the fullness of life that He has planned for us. So let us embrace the gift of laughter that God has given us. Let us laugh often and let us share our laughter with others. Let us trust in God's plan for our lives and let us find joy and peace in the midst of life's challenges. For with God, all things are possible, and with laughter, all things are bearable.