Laughing at others can seem harmless, but it can hurt deeply. Today, we’ll explore Bible verses that remind us of the importance of kindness and empathy. These verses encourage us to use our words and actions to lift others up, not tear them down.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Giving Your Life To God
Bible Verses About Laughing At Others
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”
This verse teaches us the importance of being generous and kind to others, instead of despising or laughing at them. Laughing at others is a form of contempt and it goes against the commandment to love our neighbor as ourselves.
Instead, we are called to be compassionate and generous towards those who are in need. By being kind to others, we not only bless them but also demonstrate our love for God and reflect His character.
Proverbs 17:5
“Whoever mocks the poor insults his Maker; he who is glad at calamity will not go unpunished.”
This verse warns against mocking or laughing at the poor, as it is an insult to God who created them. It reminds us that God cares deeply for the vulnerable and expects us to treat them with dignity and compassion.
Furthermore, finding joy in the misfortune of others is displeasing to God and has consequences. Instead of laughing at calamity, we are called to extend a helping hand and show empathy towards those who are going through difficult times.
James 4:11
“Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge.”
This verse highlights the importance of not speaking evil or mocking others, including our brothers and sisters in Christ. When we mock or laugh at others, we are not only disrespecting them but also disregarding God’s law.
Instead, we are called to love and encourage one another, recognizing that we are all part of the same family in Christ. Let us choose our words wisely and use them to build each other up rather than tearing each other down.
Proverbs 24:17-18
“Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles, lest the Lord see it and be displeased, and turn away his anger from him.”
This verse cautions against finding joy in the misfortunes of our enemies. Laughing at their failures or downfalls is not aligned with the character of Christ, who taught us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us.
Instead of rejoicing in their misfortune, let us extend grace and forgiveness, showing the love of Christ even to those who may have wronged us. Our response should be one of compassion and hope for their redemption, rather than mockery.
Matthew 7:1-2
“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.”
This verse reminds us not to judge or mock others, for the same measure we use to judge others will be applied to us. Mocking others only exposes our own heart and invites judgment upon ourselves.
Instead, let us focus on examining our own lives and actions, striving to become more Christ-like. Rather than laughing at the faults of others, let us extend mercy and seek to build up and encourage one another in love.
Proverbs 21:24
“Scoffer is the name of the arrogant, haughty man who acts with arrogant pride.”
This verse describes the character of a scoffer, someone who mocks and laughs at others with arrogant pride. It warns us against adopting such an attitude, as it reflects a heart that is full of pride and lacking in humility.
Instead of mocking others, let us strive to cultivate humility in our own lives. When we choose humility, we are more willing to listen, understand, and empathize with others, rather than belittling or laughing at them.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5
“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful.”
This well-known passage on love reminds us that true love is not arrogant or rude. Love does not mock or laugh at others but seeks to treat them with patience, kindness, and respect.
Let us strive to manifest this kind of love in our interactions with others, refraining from mocking or laughing at their expense. Instead, let us show genuine care and concern, putting others’ needs before our own.
Proverbs 18:21
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.”
This verse emphasizes the impact our words have on others. Our words have the power to either bring life or death – to build up or tear down. Laughing at others can be an act of verbal violence, causing emotional and psychological harm.
Instead, let us use our words to speak life and encouragement to those around us. Let us choose to uplift and inspire, fostering an atmosphere of love and acceptance rather than mockery and ridicule.
Galatians 6:7
“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.”
This verse serves as a reminder that we reap what we sow. If we sow mockery and laughter at others, we can expect the same treatment in return. God sees our actions and will hold us accountable.
Instead, let us sow seeds of kindness, love, and empathy. By treating others with respect and compassion, we invite the same into our own lives and reflect the character of Christ.
Ephesians 4:29
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”
This verse encourages us to use our words wisely, avoiding any speech that is corrupt or tears others down. Our words should be uplifting, building others up and extending grace to those who hear them.
Instead of laughing at others, let us aim to bring joy, encouragement, and hope through our words. Let us be mindful of the impact our words can have on those around us and choose to speak life and love.
Proverbs 16:18
“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”
This verse warns against the dangers of pride and a haughty spirit. Laughing at others can often come from a place of arrogance, looking down on them and finding satisfaction in their failures.
Instead, let us humble ourselves before God and others, recognizing our own flaws and limitations. By doing so, we can cultivate empathy and compassion, treating others with dignity and respect rather than mocking them.
Philippians 2:3-4
“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
This passage encourages us to have a humble and selfless mindset, putting the needs and interests of others before our own. Laughing at others stems from a place of rivalry and conceit, where we consider ourselves superior.
Instead, let us choose to esteem others as more important and valuable. By doing so, we can foster a culture of love and respect, where laughing at others has no place, and instead, there is a genuine desire to uplift and support one another.
Proverbs 22:10
“Drive out a scoffer, and strife will go out, and quarreling and abuse will cease.”
This verse points out the negative consequences that come with allowing scoffers to remain in our midst. Laughing at others can contribute to strife, quarreling, and verbal abuse.
Instead, let us distance ourselves from the influence of scoffers and strive to be individuals who promote peace, unity, and edification through our words and actions.
Psalm 1:1
“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;”
This verse advises against aligning ourselves with those who mock and scoff at others. By distancing ourselves from the company of mockers, we can avoid their negative influence and guard our hearts from adopting their attitudes.
Instead, let us seek godly counsel and surround ourselves with those who build us up and encourage us in our faith journey. Let our associations be with those who reflect the character of Christ.
Ephesians 5:4
“Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.”
This verse instructs us to refrain from engaging in crude or foolish talk, including mocking and laughing at others. Such behavior is inappropriate for followers of Christ.
Instead, let our speech be seasoned with thanksgiving and words that bring life and encouragement to those around us. Let us embody love and kindness in all our interactions, avoiding anything that demeans or devalues others.
1 Peter 3:8-9
“Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.”
This passage encourages believers to embrace unity, sympathy, and brotherly love. Laughing at others is contrary to these values and promotes divisiveness and animosity.
Instead, let us respond to evil words or actions with blessings and forgiveness. By doing so, we reflect the grace and love of Christ, inviting His blessings into our own lives.
Proverbs 20:19
“Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler.”
This verse warns against associating with those who engage in slander and gossip, revealing the secrets and weaknesses of others. Laughing at others can often be accompanied by sharing personal information that should remain private.
Instead, let us choose to guard our tongues and respect the privacy and dignity of others. By doing so, we cultivate trust and honor in our relationships, fostering an atmosphere of love and grace.
1 Corinthians 10:24
“Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.”
This verse encourages us to prioritize the welfare and well-being of others over our own desires. Laughing at others may provide temporary amusement for ourselves, but it comes at the expense of another’s dignity and self-esteem.
Instead, let us shift our focus to seeking the good of our neighbors, demonstrating genuine care and compassion. By celebrating the successes and strengths of others, rather than mocking their weaknesses, we can foster a culture of support and encouragement.
Proverbs 10:23
“Doing wrong is like a joke to a fool, but wisdom is pleasure to a man of understanding.”
This verse contrasts the attitude of a fool with that of a person of understanding. Laughing at others’ wrongdoings is a foolish and insensitive response, lacking in wisdom and understanding.
Instead, let us seek wisdom and discernment, finding pleasure in understanding and appreciating the value of others. By doing so, we can build bridges of empathy and authenticity, fostering healthy relationships and promoting the kingdom values of love and respect.
Colossians 3:8
“But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.”
This verse instructs believers to rid themselves of anger, malice, slander, and obscene talk. Laughing at others may involve slander or obscene language, which goes against the teachings of Christ.
Instead, let our words be filled with grace, kindness, and truth. By speaking life and encouragement to others, we reflect the transformation that Christ has brought into our lives.
Proverbs 24:17
“Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles.”
This verse reminds us not to take pleasure in the misfortunes of our enemies. Laughing at others, particularly our enemies, can stem from a vindictive and vengeful heart.
Instead, let us choose forgiveness and compassion, seeking reconciliation and redemption. By doing so, we demonstrate the transformative power of Christ’s love and reflect His character in our interactions.
Proverbs 17:12
“Let a man meet a she-bear robbed of her cubs rather than a fool in his folly.”
This verse depicts the folly and foolishness of a person engaged in their own foolish ways. Laughing at others’ foolishness aligns us with the same lack of wisdom and understanding.
Instead, let us strive to grow in wisdom and discernment, choosing to uplift and encourage others rather than ridiculing them. By doing so, we can foster an environment of trust, respect, and growth.
Proverbs 26:18-19
“Like a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death is the man who deceives his neighbor and says, ‘I am only joking!'”
This verse highlights the danger and harm that can come from deceiving others under the guise of joking. Laughing at others can sometimes involve deception and manipulation, causing emotional pain and damaging relationships.
Instead, let us value honesty and integrity in our interactions. By speaking truth and authenticity, we build trust and cultivate healthy and meaningful connections with others.
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”
This verse teaches us the importance of being generous and kind to others, instead of despising or laughing at them. Laughing at others is a form of contempt and goes against the commandment to love our neighbor as ourselves.
Instead, we are called to be compassionate and generous towards those in need. By treating others with respect and dignity, we not only bless them but also demonstrate our love for God and reflect His character.
Proverbs 17:5
“Whoever mocks the poor insults his Maker; he who is glad at calamity will not go unpunished.”
This verse warns against mocking or laughing at the poor. Such actions amount to insulting God, who created them. It reminds us that God cares deeply for the vulnerable and expects us to treat them with compassion and empathy.
Rather than finding joy in the misfortune of others, let us extend a helping hand and show empathy towards those who are going through difficult times. By doing so, we reflect the heart of our compassionate Creator.