What Makes You Happy?

We all need a little encouragement to ‘keep us going’ each day! For some it is a paycheck. For others it is knowing we are making a difference in the world. Still others keep going by watching their children grow into adulthood. These are all great accomplishments, but all fall short.

The Lord said to his disciples, “He who hears you hears me, and he who rejects you rejects me, and he who rejects me rejects him who sent me.” The seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!” And he said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall hurt you. Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you; but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.”

Luke 10:16-21

There is a popular Greek expression for birthdays and name days. “May you have whatever you desire.” It is a challenge not to ‘go after’ your heart’s desire, but to desire the right thing. All the earthly accomplishments won’t make a difference if you find yourself outside the Gates.

On the other hand, if we can ‘be happy’ knowing God loves us and that we will be with Him in heaven, we won’t ‘care’ about worldly success. It isn’t that it is bad to succeed. I would suggest success includes ‘doing our best’ to honor God.

If we honor God with our best effort, even if the world does not reward us, we have accomplished what will ultimately make us happy. As you go through your day ask yourself two questions.

Am I honoring God with my best effort right now? Am I putting more value in succeeding with this rather than honoring God?

The answer to these questions will tell you what makes you happy.