In a college campus survey the question was asked, “What do you want most in life?” The majority of students answered, “To be happy.” Those who look for happiness in people, position, power, places, or things will never end their search. This kind of happiness is only an illusion.
You can contribute to someone’s happiness, but you cannot make another person happy. Happiness is an inside job. Happy feelings appear or disappear momentarily because of certain events, but “happiness” is a choice. The secret of happiness is found in an inner-contentment that is rooted in an unshakeable faith in God.
Philippians 4:11 (NIV)
The Apostle Paul said, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”
Practical Application and Assignments:
Happiness that depends on its circumstances is only temporary. We have very little control over our circumstances, but we can control how we allow our circumstances to affect us.
- Don’t let unhappy feelings about a situation make you an unhappy person. Choose not to be ruled by your emotions.
- Think happy thoughts. “Whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8
- Keep a positive attitude. Happiness is an “I choose to be happy anyway attitude.” It is the realization that I would like your approval, but it isn’t necessary for my happiness. It is the ability to look past the grief in times of sorrow with assurance that God will give me what ever I need to face tomorrow.
- Make this declaration: “Today, whether I see the sun shine or not, I choose to be happy!” I am responsible for my happiness.
“For I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow.” Jeremiah 31:13
