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October 6, 2008
Happiness
by Carol Custer
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content (1 Timothy 6:6-8).
HAPPINESS IS NOT. . .
A new car, a better house, more money in the bank, celebrity status,
Recognition for things accomplished, that dream job, perfect children or grandchildren, an absolutely perfect house with every corner clean, and a beautifully kept garden and yard, no persecution or criticism for our stand for what we believe to be GodÕs will for us! None of these things give us happiness. They are only props to give us encouragement and purpose to serve the Lord. So what is happiness?
HAPPINESS IS . . .
Fearing God: ÒBlessed [happy] is everyone that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his waysÓ (Psalm 128;1,2).
Being a child of God: Ò. . . happy is that people, whose God is the LORDÓ (Psalm 144:15).
Trusting God: Ò. . . whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is heÓ (Prov. 16:20).
Obeying God: ÒIf ye know these things [GodÕs commandments], happy are ye if ye do themÓ (John 13:17).
Receiving GodÕs chastening: ÒBehold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the AlmightyÓ (Job 5:17),
Suffering for Christ: ÒBut and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubledÓ (1 Peter 3:14).
Receiving GodÕs help: ÒHappy is he that hath the God of Jacob as his help, whose hope is in the Lord his GodÓ (Ps 146:5).
At this time in our country, many people are unhappy with politics, economy, and their place in life. As Christian women, we have opportunity to show forth the source of real happiness the love of God. Our testimony counts, and our every day walk needs to show that we are happy in the LordÕs will and work. Complaining every time something goes wrong makes others think that we are discontented and does not show to others GodÕs sustaining Grace. If we daily read the Word and apply His message to our lives, we will be productive, contented, and
Happy in the LORD!