The worship of God is something that we must take very seriously. To approach the very presence of God demands that we do such with proper thoughts, proper motives, proper methods, proper actions and proper demeanor. Is there a place for “hilarity”?
There is an interesting Greek word found in 2 Corinthians 9, and it is the only time it is used in the entirety of the Greek New Testament. In verse 7, we learn that “God loves a cheerful giver.” The English word “cheerful” comes from the Greek word hilaros. Look at that word closely and you’ll see what English words are derived from that Greek word – “hilarious, hilarity, exhilaration.” The idea is one of great merriment, joy, happiness, cheer and excitement.
No, worship is not a place for “noisily, boisterous laughter and amusement” (as our English word “hilarious” is understood). But, our giving in worship should be prompted by and produce within us great exhilaration, merriment, joy, cheer and excitement for God and all He does for us!