People pursue happiness through a variety of different avenues. Some seek it through education and success. Others seek it through money and possessions. Some even seek it through trying to acquire perfect circumstances in life. Unfortunately, none of these avenues produce true happiness and satisfaction in life.
While happiness is something that everyone wants, few ever obtain it. Happiness is often elusive because most pursue it in all the wrong places.
Where happiness is not found
- It is not found in money and possessions (Ecclesiastes 2:1-11; 5:10). The treasures of this world corrupt and eventually lose their luster (Matthew 6:19). They are here today and can be gone tomorrow (Proverbs 23:4-5).
- It is not found in desiring perfect circumstances in life. Life in a world contaminated by sin will never be perfect (Ecclesiastes 9:11). Not even Jesus experienced perfect circumstances while living on the earth.
- It is not found in living an immoral and undisciplined life. The people of Israel had to learn this lesson the hard way during the period of judges (Judges 21:25).
- It is not found in always trying to get our way. No one always gets their way in life! Through this pursuit, we make ourselves and the lives of others miserable!
Where happiness is found
- It is found in choosing to connect with God. God does desire happiness, joy, and peace in our lives (Romans 14:17; Galatians 5:22; Philippians 4:4). The source of the happiness God desires for us is found in fulfilling our purpose in life. Our purpose is to serve God and be in a relationship with Him (Psalm 1:1; Proverbs 29:19; Ecclesiastes 12:13; Galatians 5:22). We can’t expect to find happiness apart from God!
- It is found in choosing to serve others. Jesus devoted Himself to doing good in people’s lives (Acts 10:38). We were made to follow in His footsteps (Acts 20:35; Psalm 41:1; Proverbs 14:21).
- It is found in choosing to count your blessings (Colossians 3:15). Instead of grumbling, griping, and complaining about all of life’s problems, we need constantly consider our current blessings. Doing this will keep us humble and help us maintain a proper perspective.
- It is found in choosing to trust God (Proverbs 3:5; 16:20; Philippians 4:6-7). God will never let us down. He will always love us and watch out for us. Every instruction in His word is designed to keep us out of trouble and on the narrow path.
- It is found in choosing to think about heaven (Luke 10:20; John 14:2; Matthew 6:19-21). How can one expect to obtain happiness if he is consumed in a world full of unhappiness and disappointment? The only way to escape a world full of many problems is to be in heaven with God for eternity.
Conclusion:
God is the source of true happiness. The sooner we accept this, the better off our lives will be!