Levity and Cheerfulness

Proper communication is a part of the Christian experience. It is a skill, and one that is not easily mastered. The use of the voice can quickly become a tool of Satan by speaking untrue, foolish, or hasty words. One of the most common ways Christians abuse the talent of speech is by joking, jesting, and using levity.

In Titus 2, Paul says, “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, . . . The aged women likewise, that . . . they may teach the young women to be sober. . . . Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded . . . [showing] uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned.” Here is unquestionable evidence concerning how we should talk and act.

Ellen White wrote: “Let all who would form a right character choose associates who are of a serious, thoughtful turn of mind and who are religiously inclined.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 588. Not only should we talk and act soundly, but we should also have companions who share a similar standard.

In another writing, Mrs. White plainly stated just how serious this is: “Nothing can more effectually prevent or banish serious impressions and good desires than association with vain, careless, and corrupt-minded persons. Whatever attractions such persons may possess by their wit, sarcasm, and fun, the fact that they treat religion with levity and indifference is sufficient reason why they should not be associated with. The more engaging they are in other respects, the more should their influence be dreaded as companions, because they throw around an irreligious life so many dangerous attractions.” Ibid., vol. 3, 126.

Concerning socializing between men and women, she wrote: “Both brethren and sisters indulge in too much jovial talk when in each other’s society. Women professing godliness indulge in much jesting, joking, and laughing. This is unbecoming and grieves the Spirit of God. These exhibitions reveal a lack of true Christian refinement. They do not strengthen the soul in God, but bring great darkness; they drive away the pure, refined, heavenly angels and bring those who engage in these wrongs down to a low level.” Ibid., vol. 2, 455.

Foolishness is classified with pride, blasphemy, deceit, and evil thoughts in Mark 7:22. A preacher once said that someone who says they were “just kidding” is really lying. John 8:44 says, “Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. . . . When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.” And in Proverbs 26:18, 19, we read: “As a mad [man] who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death, So [is] the man [that] deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?”

As can be seen from the previous references, Christians need to be sober and use serious words. But should we never smile? Should Christians be gloomy? Mrs. White answers these questions: “We may have true Christian dignity and at the same time be cheerful and pleasant in our deportment. Cheerfulness without levity is one of the Christian graces.” Ibid., vol. 4, 62. “There is nothing gloomy in the religion of Jesus. While all lightness, trifling, and jesting, which the apostle says are not convenient, are to be studiously avoided, there is a sweet rest and peace in Jesus that will be expressed in the countenance. Christians will not be mournful, depressed, and despairing. They will be sober-minded; yet they will show to the world a cheerfulness which only grace can impart.” Review and Herald, April 15, 1884.

While we need to be serious, we also need to manifest cheerfulness in our characters. There are many things in life that are funny, but one does not need to create artificial happiness or fun. True happiness does not consist of telling jokes or clever anecdotes.

“Pure and undefiled religion is not a sentiment, but the doing of works of mercy and love. This religion is necessary to health and happiness. It enters the polluted soul-temple, and with a scourge drives out the sinful intruders. Taking the throne, it consecrates all by its presence, illuminating the heart with the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. It opens the windows of the soul heavenward, letting in the sunshine of God’s love. With it comes serenity and composure. Physical, mental, and moral strength increase, because the atmosphere of heaven, as a living, active agency, fills the soul. Christ is formed within, the hope of glory.” Review and Herald, October 15, 1901.

May Noah writes from her home in Aitkin, Minnesota, where she lives with her sister and father. She may be contacted by e-mail at: landmarks@stepstolife.org.