Happiness is a choice even in the face of adversity and suffering. Choose to be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. First century Christians suffered tremendously for the cause of Christ even to the point of death, and they remained faithful and steadfast. They rejoiced in the Lord in the face of evil. I pray that we can do the same in the twenty-first century and beyond. Our heavenly Father sees all things as they happen, and He is for us as we faithfully persevere in Christ.
I read an article in Psychology Today that got my attention regarding the importance of happiness over our desire to be in heaven. The article stated, “Attaining happiness is a global pursuit. Researchers find that people from every corner of the world rate happiness more important than other desirable personal outcomes, such as obtaining wealth, acquiring material goods, and getting into heaven.”
The idea that happiness can be separate and apart from the realm of God is a fallacy created in the minds of the lost. Modern day psychology is not always in line with the way of the Lord. As a child of the Most High God, can you imagine anything being more important than your life with the Lord? Absolutely not! God is everything to us in Christ.
In life there will always be unhappy people who may displace their anger and frustrations on you and other people. It’s best not to play into their misery. If needed, listen to them and if possible, help them, but do not allow anyone to rob you of your joy in the Lord. Be mindful that there are people who only want to be heard and do not care to be helped by you or anyone. It’s best to avoid people of this nature. Always choose to be happy, and don’t let people get under your skin. Life without God can be depressing. Keep God above all things in your life and choose to be happy in the Lord.
Take this passage from the Word of God to heart. "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:4-7). Delight in the Lord and let the joy of Christ fill your mind and soul with happiness. Let nothing ever cause you to be discouraged or down-hearted, remember whose you are and where you are going. I pray that your heart will always be in the direction of the Lord.
May the love of God, the joy of Jesus, and the peace of the Holy Spirit be with you always.
Silbano Garcia II
Evangelist