Ecclesiastes 2:1. “I said in mine heart, ‘Go to now, I will prove thee with mirth, Therefore, enjoy pleasure:’ And behold, this also is vanity.” A LAUGH. A word is said with abandoned unconcern – a name, an insinuation: don’t worry – it is only for laughs. A phrase is repeated with tones of voice that suggest a difference – it’s only a joke – really? A sentence is spoken with a hand held before the face so no one sees – then raucous laughter – suspicion arises. A paragraph is repeated – embellished a little – nothing serious, only a few small changes to make it better. An incident is recounted – names and places to “protect the innocent” are changed – but can’t you figure it out? A story is told in full, living color – the whole room dissolves in helpless laughter at the expense of one who is not there. VANITY!
The comedian is worth paying money for because he can make a monkey laugh (and you buy his product). The joke book is full to overflowing with all kinds of stories to be retold if you can remember them all (you practice memorizing). The cartoon is drawn in such a way that you can’t miss the point (you think why don’t I try that?). The family is together and reminiscing over the past – it’s okay until they look at you and say, “Remember when….?” The point wasn’t to embarrass anyone or make them blush too much – it was all in fun – until they get up and leave. What’s the matter? Can’t they take a joke? It’s only for a laugh! VANITY!
“Did you see that face? Only a mother could love that!” And everyone laughs. (He was burned as a baby) “What a size! Watch out you are not stepped on!” And everyone laughs! (She has a serious genetic disorder) “What rock did he come out from under! He can’t have washed in a year!” And everyone laughs! (His family broke up and he sleeps wherever he can) “Those clothes look like they’re from the 60’s! They clash at every joint!” And everyone laughs! (That family is poor and they buy at Goodwill) “Did you ever hear such a terrible singing voice? Her tail was stepped on!” And everyone laughs! (She just wants to praise the Lord) “He’s so lazy he can’t scratch an itch!” And everyone laughs! (He has had arthritis since he was a child) VANITY!
Laughter at its best is for only a moment, and at its worst can bring pain and hurt. It is only vanity. Humor can bring relief from tension, can break barriers between people, can comfort for a time – but when all is said and done, “It is vanity.”
“Father God, there are times when I can’t seem to help myself from saying something funny. I fear those times lest they hurt some person without any intention to on my part. I need discernment to use its power properly. I ask for that help now; in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”