Happiness and Joy
Key Verse to Read and Treasure
Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2, ESV)
For Insight
Some don’t believe happiness is possible in this life. Some believe God is not concerned about our happiness. But what is joy except happiness?
It was Jesus’ joy (happiness) to come to earth, live this life and go to the cross to save sinners. He was happy to do so.
Happiness is defined as a state of being and finding happiness in something or someone.
To be happy three things must exist:
- We must do something we enjoy.
- We must feel interested in the activities and connected to others.
- We must feel like what we are doing matters in some way; whether big or small.
We can see how and why Jesus felt a sense of joy, which was happiness as he obeyed the Father and served his creation. Jesus was totally committed to what he was going to do for mankind, and he knew without a doubt what he was doing mattered for our future and eternity.
Solomon said there’s nothing better than to be happy in our work (Read Ecclesiastes 3:22). Are you happy in yours? Happiness in our work cannot be based upon renumeration alone. We must feel a sense of importance about what we are doing; that our work is important and needed for the well-being of others. regardless of what that work may be or look like.
People of the world may find their greatest happiness and joy in serving themselves, but you might find yours in doing good, and serving others or greater causes.
Think of the things that bring you joy. Are they not your happy place also? Do you experience joy in providing for your family? Serving your church? Giving care to the weak? Or serving the helpless, the poor and needy?
When Christ abides in us, we take on his attitude of happiness we experience happiness and joy in the smallest things.
Of course, my joy and your joy may be different. What makes me happy may not make you happy because we are wondrously and uniquely made and that is purposed by God that we find happiness in different ways, but each joy we embrace also brings joy to the Father.
Jesus, because you abide in me and I in you I take on your heart and personality. I am discovering what you find joy and happiness in is also becoming what I find joy and happiness in. Amen
For Application
What brings you joy? Are you doing what fuels your happiness?
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