The Pursuit of Happiness

Jubilantly, biblical truth redefines happiness. Happiness, by God’s standard, is a state of well-being that is independent of all that is of this earth and dependent on all that is divine. It is the outcome of connecting to God in a manner that changes the innermost parts of our souls, giving rise to the fruit of His spirit. The happiness spoken of in the Bible exists apart from worldly endeavors. Contrary to human wisdom, we do not need the right people, the right positions, or the right possessions to be happy.

BIBLE TRUTH
“Don’t put your confidence in powerful people;
      there is no help for you there" (Ps. 146:3 NLT).
“Then he said, 'Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own'" (Luke 12:15 NLT).

HOW DOES THIS APPLY TO ME?
The pursuit of happiness through the avenues of life resources is sure to lead to the loss of happiness and will establish the foundation for all varieties of addiction. To independently seek happiness constitutes the surest way to become lost amid the maze of life’s self-centered options. Solomon asserts that we are to pursue truth, not happiness. Why? People are incapable of discerning what is in their best interest. Happiness is derived when we encounter God and connect with Him spiritually.

PRAYER
Lord, I desire to live in truth and never stray from it. I do not want to be impressed with my own wisdom. Instead, give me your wisdom so I may learn from your discipline, and follow your good judgement. Remind me and help me to fear you and turn away from evil. (Prov. 3:7, 23:23)


(excerpts from Desperate Dependency by J. Kirk & Melanie D. Lewis)


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