that was funny

Have you ever thought about humor? Of all God’s creation, only humans laugh. Lions do not pause during their hunt to share a funny story with another, and squirrels do not stop to giggle at how clumsy they are. Only humans laugh. Birds may sing, and dogs wag their tails, but only people double over in laughter, share funny stories, or wipe away tears from laughing too hard.

God must have a sense of humor for we were created in His image. What would make God laugh? Could it be our attempts to plan our lives as if we hold the future? David in Psalm 2:4 gives us a glimpse of God’s nature: “The One enthroned in heaven laughs.” When God laughs, He is reminding us that His wisdom, power, and authority are so complete that human planning seems foolish by comparison. David speaks of the nation’s raging, kings plotting, and rulers rising up against God’s plans as if they could overthrow the Creator of the universe. God responds by laughing, because their schemes are ultimately powerless against His sovereign will.

Genesis 1:7 tells us we were created in the image of God; therefore, humor is a way His likeness shines through us. Humor is a holy gift; a gentle reminder that joy is woven into the fabric of creation. It lifts heavy hearts, softens sharp words, and builds bridges where walls once stood. Proverbs 17:22 tells us, “A cheerful heart is good medicine.” God designed laughter to heal and refresh us, to remind us that even in a broken world, there is still delight.

Scripture contains moments of divine humor. Sarah laughed when God promised her a son in her old age and God told her to name the boy Isaac, which means “he laughs.” So, laugh often. Reflect God’s joy.

-G. Yarin