If pleasure could make us happy, Americans would be the happiest people in the world. We are bombarded with advertisements and opportunities to make our lives enjoyable. But are we really happy? I think not. How many people do you know who tell you they are happy? Generally people talk about their problems and disappointments. They are “going with the flow”—just trying to get through life. But as Sarah Palin said on Fox News the other evening, “Only dead fish go with the flow.” If all you are doing is going with the flow, you stink. You are living a rotten, cheerless life. You cannot express happiness except as a temporary, short-lived occurrence. Give me joy any day. Happiness is temporary, but Jesus said joy is eternal.
“… I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” John 16:22b NIV
True joy comes from the God.
“You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence,with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” Psalm 16:11 NIV
True joy is given to us when we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior.
“… you love him; … you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy...” 1 Peter 1:8-9 NIV
So we can participate in and have a permanent joy.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4 NIV
So instead of seeking happiness on earth, we should be seeking the permanent joy and peace only God can give.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 NIV
Lord, through the power of the Holy Spirit, grant me your joy and peace today and every day I am on earth.
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