Thomas Jefferson, in the immortal words of the Declaration of Independence, said that among our inalienable rights were “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.” Well, we can seek, but often, by seeking for happiness in the wrong places, we find not happiness, but trouble.
It seems that happiness is a bit coy. Seek her and she slips away.
Some seek for happiness in love, and that is mighty near the truth. Yet, it isn’t the whole truth, for the love that begins in a human heart is not eternal, is not perfect, is not pure.
Others seek for happiness in material success, and while it is true that the absence of worldly goods can be a trouble, it is not true that the presence of them alone brings happiness.
And some seek for happiness in health and long life, chasing medical, dietary, or fitness regimes that will promote wellbeing and long life. If we were nothing but bodies, this might be the answer, but a long life lived miserably does not reflect happiness.
The answer is found in Scripture. “Happy is the man who trusts in God.” Why? Because God is love, God is the secret of true success, and God is the only one Who can heal the soul.
In this coming year, let’s seek after God with a whole heart. As we walk faithfully with Him, Happiness will find us. As we work and live for Him, she will slip up behind us and put her arm through ours. Pursue Christ, and the blessing of happiness will find you!
“…whoever trusts in the Lord, happy is he.” Proverbs 16:20
Dear Lord, We covenant this year to make Your priorities, our priorities. We want to stop seeking the gift, and to begin seeking the Giver. Help us abide with You in this New Year. In Christ’s Name, amen.
Blessings,
Cara & Patti
Classic Christianity