“The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the LORD scoffs at them.”
Psalm 2:4
The Bible says God laughs. I was stunned the first time I read that. I know God is a God of perfect love and perfect justice—benevolent and yet stern, judging sin. So I think we have to understand that there are times when the Bible uses human terms—like the idea of laughing—to help us grasp something about God. It’s not there to depict Him as some sort of jolly old soul, chuckling in heaven. Rather, describing God as one who laughs helps us see more clearly that His plans will not be thwarted.
Psalm 2 shows us that the Lord laughs at those who conspire to work against Him, who spurn His authority and ignore His teachings. “He mocks proud mockers” (Proverbs 3:34). He laughs because He knows He alone is all-powerful, sometimes staying His hand, other times administering discipline. “But the LORD laughs at the wicked; for he knows their day is coming” (Psalm 37:13).
God does not laugh at our sufferings or shortcomings. Our silly rebellions, our attempts to be in control, and our outright sin do not please Him, but they also will not undo Him.
Psalm 2 shows us that the Lord laughs at those who conspire to work against Him, who spurn His authority and ignore His teachings. “He mocks proud mockers” (Proverbs 3:34). He laughs because He knows He alone is all-powerful, sometimes staying His hand, other times administering discipline. “But the LORD laughs at the wicked; for he knows their day is coming” (Psalm 37:13).
God does not laugh at our sufferings or shortcomings. Our silly rebellions, our attempts to be in control, and our outright sin do not please Him, but they also will not undo Him.
Scripture Focus
Psalm 2:1-6
Insight
Do you have a friend who does not know Jesus? Share the gospel so they can be saved and see that the Lord smiles on them in love.
Bible In A Year
- Genesis 3-4
- Psalm 2
- Matthew 3-4
