Happiness. Everybody wants it. But it is so elusive. Well-meaning folks search for it in all sorts of places. Some seek it in material things. Some through substance abuse. Some through sexual escapades. Most through their own selfish ambitions.
On the other hand, there are some people who believe there is no way to be truly happy. Ask yourself, “Does God want me to be happy? Really? Truly happy?” Some are living under the delusion that God isn’t interested in them enjoying life or being happy. Such could not be further from the truth.
There is a secret to happiness that only Christians know. Do you want to know the insider’s scoop that God’s people have discovered? True happiness is not conditioned upon the erratic circumstances of life. Rather, true happiness is determined by one’s relationship with God and how that relationship works through the circumstances and people of life. Consider 1 Peter 3:8-12.
Peter addresses the situation when a Christian is served up “evil” and “reviling” from his worldly acquaintances (3:9). What is a Christian to do, and how does this have anything to do with happiness? In these situations, a Christian is to return “a blessing instead,” in order that he “might inherit a blessing.” God will give us something (i.e., “a blessing”) that we don’t deserve (making us “happy”), and therefore, we should treat others in a way (i.e., with “a blessing”) that they don’t deserve! As Christians, we desire “to love life and see good days” (3:10). We want to find the true happiness that God has in store for us on earth! Here’s where it is.
True happiness comes when we refrain our tongue from evil! The easy thing to do when evil is spouted at us is to return in like manner! That will not result in true happiness!
True happiness comes when we refrain our lips from speaking deceit! It may bring a twisted satisfaction to lead people down a path paved with dishonesty, but that will not result in true happiness!
True happiness comes when we turn away from evil! We must test all things (1 Thess. 5:21), and then flee as far away from sin as we can! True happiness does not fraternize with sin!
True happiness comes when we do good! This is not addressing doing good in general, but doing good unto others (cf. Gal. 6:10). That’s where we will find true happiness!
True happiness comes when we pursue true peace! Being in an ongoing relationship with the Prince of Peace and helping others to find His peace brings true happiness!
Are you happy? Truly happy? Do you want to have a blessing from God? Then, be a blessing to others!