Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. (Ephesians 5:4 ESV)
Motivation
Alfred Noble knew that nitroglycerin was terribly dangerous. Mining and construction accidents were common. And so, he experimented and developed a safer way to blow things up that he called dynamite.
But it wasn’t long before that well-intentioned invention was being used for bombs and other weaponry.
Dynamite was useful, helpful, and safe. But it also was used for harm, hatred, and warfare.
Laughter, too, is useful, helpful, safe, and good. But it can also be used to hurt, express hatred, deride, and be immature.
Just like our words, laughter can heal or hurt. Just like most actions, laughter can heal or hurt. Just like our daily activities, laughter can heal or hurt. Just like our relationships, laughter can heal or hurt.
Laugh, but laugh well.