“my soul is bereft of peace; I have forgotten what happiness is” Lamentations 3:17
The founding fathers of the United States believed in God. The Declaration of Independence states HE gave humanity certain unalienable Rights. These include Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.
Most children growing up in the United States are familiar with this statement. The pursuit of happiness is indoctrinated into their belief system from an early age. Yet for many people, happiness is a mirage never obtained. Over time, despondency sets in. So how does one live a happy life?
An ongoing 85-year scientific study conducted by Harvard University has investigated this subject. Their conclusion may surprise many. They followed the life of over 700 diverse people from around the world. They started in 1938 and interviewed them every two years. Their conclusion? Long-term happiness isn’t a byproduct of accomplishments, wealth, nor health. But instead the social fitness of one’s relationships.
Isn’t that what Jesus emphasized?
HE reiterated the same some two thousand years ago. When asked what is the most important rule to follow in one’s life, He replied quoting from the Bible. In summary HE stated to love God with your whole being and others as yourself.
HE also highlighted the importance of relationships throughout HIS life. First with HIS heavenly Father, then with His disciples, and lasting with HIS family. Today, HE relates and intervenes for all who seek HIM.
When Jesus becomes your reference point, you then have a north star to follow. You also have a mentor to emulate. Plus you find purpose and meaning for your life. All built on eternal values which are long lasting and fruitful.
You have a proven King to govern and protect you. You develop relationships with others who have accepted HIM. You discover a way of life that produces freedom, flourishment, and fulfillment. Not just for yourself, but for all who practice HIS merits.
One doesn’t chase happiness. Happiness is the byproduct of a well lived life. It begins when one accepts responsibility to serve others for their success. When both sides of the relationship mutually serve each other, good things happen.
When Jesus made the statement that HE is the way, the truth, and the life (Jn. 14:6), HE emphasized what HE brings to the table for all humanity. A unifying relationship that brings God the Father and the Holy Spirit with HIM into your life. In fact, HE brings something better than happiness into your life. He brings heavenly joy into your being. Happiness is temporary and fleeting. But joy lasts a lifetime. HIS peace and joy HE gives you when you start hanging out with HIM.
When HE is the core of your life, circumstances may stink, but life is still good. HE fills you with HIS love, joy, and peace even when life around you is crazy. It starts and grows as you seek a personal relationship with HIM. HE becomes your Savior, King, and Friend. Pursue HIM and something better than happiness is the byproduct.
Rooting For You in Christ!
Dr. Mike
Faith-Integrator, Encourager, Scribbler
“We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,” (Colossians 1:9)
Books By Dr. Mike:
- Power Up With Jesus – Aspirations Rooted in Jesus Christ!
- The Adventurous Journey of Transformation in Christ
- Overflowing Prayers Rooted in Jesus Christ v1 & v2
- Dancing With God: A Life-Giving Worldview
- Great Business Emulates a Good God
- Stay Free…Avoid Worldly Traps
- Simply The Messenger
- Unequally Married
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Radical In Christ 