Happiness. Being happy is one of the first things that people say they desire when they are asked what they want out of life. So let us ask, are you happy? Do you feel content and awake with joy and happiness? Don't worry if the answer is no, because it is fixable. Also don't feel like there is something wrong with you if from time-to-time you feel down. No one is 100% happy every single moment, and if someone says they are, they are lying. You can have happiness and joy in the Lord, but since we still have a sinful nature in our natural bodies, we will also have moments of despair. Happiness is not purchasable with money, yet in our society, we act as if it is. Our (Tim and Will’s) fondest moments in life have been when we barely had enough money to rent a $3 a night guesthouse, were in pain from days of travel, had little to eat, were in danger, facing hardships, and in the view of others, were ones to be pitied for the lack we seemed to have. Yet, in those situations, and still today, we have an overwhelming sense of happiness because there is hope and joy in accomplishing our purpose no matter the hardships.
“And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” — Romans 5: 3-5
If you think about your fondest memories and happiest times, they will undoubtedly recount positive interactions with other people, wonderful spiritual moments, accomplishments and personal achievements, but never include a physical object that you bought or purchased. In fact, happiness when attempted to be attained through object accumulation, will always be a let down. The anticipation and hope of getting something new is the trigger for happiness, not having it and using it. This is why so many people packrat objects and their homes are bursting with stuff that was suppose to bring happiness. They quickly become bored with it and move onto the next object that will bring joy. If your life is only focused on this, then you are cooking up a recipe for depression, despair and heartache. Basically, unhappiness.
“Then He said to them, ‘Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.’” — Luke 12:15
Take a look and ask yourself what it is that you value most. Will this bring you happiness and joy? Here’s a truth — Nothing but the Lord will bring you the fullness of joy and happiness.
“You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” — Psalms 16:11
To live a purpose filled life is a great start towards steady happiness and contentment. But what if you say, “I don’t know what my purpose is.” Don’t worry. Here is one key to what people who live a purpose filled life did to get there — They tried something new. You must not be afraid to try something different. When you try something new and make an effort for new experiences, you will instantly spark happiness. When we first started our missionary journeys, we just left for the most remote areas and started preaching the Gospel. We didn't know a television series would come years later from it, or that we would visit over 100 countries, or that we would witness thousands come to the Lord. But this all happened. You don't have to have everything figured out, you just have to be bold to follow God and try new things. Find your happiness in Him and get ready to live a wonderful life.
