By bro Lee Tian Seng
Laughter and a sense of humour can reduce conflicts in a relationship. As couples live together as husband and wife, there is bound to be some conflict. Sometime, it is over our spouse’s personality quirks or irritating habits that we cannot stand. Most people respond with criticism and complaints, which does not help in changing our spouse but promotes even more conflict. Other times it could be over more serious matters, such as you losing the family savings in an investment made without consulting your spouse.
Can having a sense of humour really help? It can possibly be useful for dealing with minor frictions and hiccups. It is good because couples should not take small matters too seriously but be able to bear with them. If we can take it with a little humour and not take ourselves too seriously, it can be easier for the couple to work on it.
Laughter also has many physical and psychological benefits. It helps to stimulate circulation, aid muscle relaxation and reduce the level of stress hormones. If couples could learn to stay positive and look at the lighter side of an issue, it will help them live together more harmoniously.
Proverbs 17:22 - A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.
How can we have more laughter and a sense of humour in our relationship? Not everyone can do it. It may not be natural because you have a serious outlook on life. It is not your personality. However, you could learn from your spouse or friends who have a better sense of humour or watch comedies on TV.
The Bible teaches us to rejoice when we encounter difficulties in life. This joy is not the idea of being happy or having a good laugh but to have an inner joy in our heart.
Philippians 4:4-7 - Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Praise God for His wisdom! He tells us to rejoice because we are Christians who trust in Him and believe that He hears our prayers. Why should we be anxious when God is always with us?
Life has many challenges and couples can survive better by changing their views on matters that trouble them. If it is a small matter, it is best to laugh it off. If the matter is too complicated and difficult for us to handle, we should go to God in prayer.