8 Reasons Every Pastor Should Laugh More

Too many pastors take themselves too seriously and don’t take God seriously enough. I believe we need to reverse that. 

Humor is one of the most underrated tools in your ministry toolbox. It will make you a better pastor and a better person. Laughter is your secret weapon for a happier, healthier ministry. Proverbs 14:30 says, “A relaxed attitude lengthens a man’s life” (TLB). Laughter is the key to that relaxed attitude. 

Here are eight reasons pastors should embrace more laughter in their life and ministry. 

1. Laughter is God’s idea. The God of the Bible laughs. Psalm 2:4 says, “The One enthroned in heaven laughs” (NIV). If the One who created the universe laughs, shouldn’t we follow his example? We become more like God when we develop a sense of humor.
   
2. Laughter dissolves tensions. Humor is a natural stress reliever. It’s like taking a tranquilizer with no side effects. When stress accumulates—whether from ministry demands or just the normal experience of life — a good laugh can dissolve that tension and provide a much-needed break.
   
3. Laughter keeps you healthy. Proverbs 17:22 tells us, “Being cheerful keeps you healthy” (GNT). Science backs this up! Laughter boosts your immune system, improves circulation, and helps reduce pain.
   
4. Laughter helps you handle difficult situations. Ministry comes with its fair share of tough situations, but laughter can help change your perspective. President Lincoln said that laughter helped him through the Civil War. If he could laugh through one of the most stressful times in history, we can certainly laugh through our own ministry challenges.
   
5. Laughter is free therapy. Ministry drains you emotionally. Between sermon prep, leading others, and counseling, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Think of laughter as free, effective therapy that lightens your heart and reframes your day.
   
6. Laughter turns bad days around. We’ve all had days when everything seems to go wrong. Sometimes all you can do is laugh at the ridiculousness of life’s setbacks. If you can laugh at your troubles, you’ll never run out of reasons to laugh!
   
7. Laughter is contagious. Your attitude sets the tone for those you lead. If you’re stressed all the time, it will trickle down. But when you learn to laugh and regularly find joy, you’ll encourage others to face challenges with a lighter heart.
   
8. Laughter breaks down barriers. In Southern California, materialism can be rampant. But I, like you, have often needed to preach on tough topics like stewardship and giving. So I used humor in those messages to allow people to let their guard down and make them more receptive. Lightening the mood helps you communicate uncomfortable truths in a way that’s easier for people to swallow.

Laughter may be one of the most important ministry tools at your disposal. Don’t forget to use it!