Isn't God the one who urges us to "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord"? Why do we always think that means singing? Seems to me the most obvious joyful sound on earth is laughter... I've seen folks quote verses like "Rejoice in the Lord always" while their faces look like they just buried a rich uncle who willed everything to his pregnant guinea pig. Something is missing.
In his book "Laugh Again Hope Again," Charles R. Swindoll raises a thought-provoking question about the common interpretation of the biblical command to "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord." He challenges the notion that this joyful expression is limited to singing, suggesting that laughter, perhaps the most universal sound of joy, is also a significant form of praise. This perspective invites a broader understanding of how we can express our devotion and happiness in our lives.
Swindoll points out the irony in how some people quote scripture about rejoicing while appearing somber or unhappy, likening their expressions to someone mourning a financial loss. This observation highlights a disconnect between words of joy and the actual experience of joy in people's lives. He implies that if we are to truly embrace the message of joy in our faith, we should also embody it through our demeanor and actions, allowing laughter and a cheerful spirit to be part of our worship.