Happiness

“Happy are the people who are in such a state; happy are the people whose God is the LORD!” – Psalm 144:15

According to a recent report, only a third of adults in the United States said they were happy. Some think they would be happier if they had more money or experienced more pleasures. Others think they would be happy if the problems they faced were solved or world conditions improved.

Levels of dissatisfaction have been consistent over many years. The fact remains that most people simply are not happy no matter what is going on in the world.

Research reports that there are exceptions to these patterns. People who attend religious services at least once a week are happier. Why? They focus on God. They think about God. They worship and trust God. They benefit from having Him at the center of their lives.

This research confirms the Bible’s conclusion that “happy are the people whose God is the Lord!” If He is Lord, we trust Him. We know that He will protect and guide us. We are sure He will provide for us and meet our needs. We can be free from worry and pressure. We can be happy.

Don’t be deceived by the pursuit of the things of the world or assume they will provide happiness. Trust in God. Worship and praise Him. Spend time in His Word. And commit your life to serve Him. Trust Him to take away your burdens and fill you with happiness the world cannot match.

Reflection Question: Write a reflection on one meaningful aspect of God’s character.