Happiness
This is the day which the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24)
Agree with God, and be at peace; thereby good will come to you. (Job 22:21)
Evening and morning and at noon I utter my complaint and moan, and he will hear my voice. (Ps. 55:17)
What is the one thing that you want that everybody else wants? Happiness. One authority says that four out of five people are not as happy as they can be. And another states that unhappiness is the most common state of mind. Why is there so much unhappiness? Why is happiness so elusive?
But what is happiness?
Genuine happiness is a state of contentment and peace of mind and a sense of well-being.
Happiness is that inner condition that causes one to be glad one is alive. Tons of books and millions of words are written on the subject of happiness. Sociologists write that five things are important for happiness:
Youth
Money, enough to meet basic needs
Success, a satisfaction with the results of one’s labors.
Good health
A good wife or husband
Certainly, people can be happy without all of these things; there are many elderly folk or single folk who experience great happiness. But these are important factors.
The most important factor in happiness is relationships, both with other people (that good wife or husband thing!) and with God. St. Augustine said, “you have made us and drawn us to yourself, and our heart is unquiet until it rests in you.” In our resting in God, in our quiet relationship with Him, we find our peace and happiness, but without that relationship, we thrash about seeking happiness in the things of this world that cannot provide true happiness.
True happiness is day to day and it starts with God. Each day is a gift (Ps. 118:24). It’s God’s gift, so enjoy it. Start each day with God (Job 22:21, Psalm 55:17). Get to know Him. Talk to Him daily.
Prayer
God, who promises us peace that passes understanding, help us to find our happiness in our relationship to you. Despite troubles that occur, we can find happiness knowing that in all things God works for the good of those who love him. Through Christ our Redeemer. Amen.
Tedd Iverson
Wind River Indian Baptist Church
Ft. Washakie WY
