As ministry leaders we need to expose the cultural definition of "happiness". Once people understand the difference between temporal happiness and everlasting, sustainable joy, we can engage them with resources that course-correct their journeys and realign priorities.
In the fast-paced world we live in, the pursuit of happiness has become an ever-elusive goal, a tantalizing mirage that constantly promises fulfillment but never quite delivers. The problem lies in the nature of happiness itself, which can be defined as the moment before you need more happiness. This fleeting, temporary state is akin to a drug, only as satisfying as your last hit, perpetually leaving you craving for more.
The pursuit of happiness manifests itself in various ways, such as the consumerism-driven desire for material possessions, the relentless chase for success in relationships and careers, and the never-ending quest for the next feel-good experience. In each of these pursuits, the satisfaction derived is ephemeral, leaving us longing for more and trapping us in an unending cycle of dissatisfaction.
Let us briefly look at consumerism. The happiness derived from the purchase of a new car, shoes, or outfit is often short-lived. Once the initial thrill or new car smell fades, we begin to experience diminishing returns, and soon enough, the desire for newer, better, and more expensive possessions takes hold. The same applies to relationships and careers, where we constantly seek new highs, new connections, and new achievements to fill the void left by the transient nature of happiness.
This ceaseless pursuit of happiness can be exhausting, draining our emotional and mental resources. However, there is an alternative: Joy. Unlike happiness, joy is not dependent on external circumstances or material wealth. It is a deep, sustaining feeling that arises from a connection to something greater than ourselves. For many, this connection is found through faith in God, whose unchanging nature provides a sense of stability and peace, even in the midst of life's most trying circumstances.
Joy in God is not swayed by the vicissitudes of life. It transcends temporary emotions and experiences, providing a stable anchor that remains constant even as our circumstances shift. When we find joy in God, we are able to maintain a sense of serenity and inner peace, regardless of the challenges we face. This unwavering joy is not contingent on our successes, relationships, or possessions. It is a divine gift, accessible to all who seek it.
Trials and tribulations are an inevitable part of the human experience, but when we cultivate joy in God, we gain the resilience to face them head-on, knowing that our peace and contentment are rooted in a power greater than our own. The pursuit of happiness pales in comparison to the enduring nature of joy, which remains steadfast even in the darkest of times. When you walk through illness, job loss, failed relationships, etc. with God, He produces a perseverance in you that builds character and when you recognize it was by His strength then your hope increases, knowing that their will be another trial up ahead, your character is better prepared to handle the next season of your life. - Romans 5: 3-5.
The pursuit of happiness, defined as the moment before you need more happiness, is an impossible goal that only leads to further dissatisfaction. The temporary nature of happiness, experienced through material possessions, relationships, and career achievements, is ultimately unfulfilling. You experience the symptoms of unfulfillment by those nagging questions that pops up. You know what I am talking about..."what's the point?", "why am I here?", etc.
Joy, found through faith in an unchanging God, provides a sustainable sense of peace and contentment that endures, regardless of our circumstances.
-Malachi 3:6 and Hebrews 13:8
Rather than seeking happiness in the transient and fleeting pleasures of the world, we ought to focus on cultivating joy through our connection with the divine. In doing so, we will find the strength, resilience, and peace that comes from anchoring ourselves to something greater than our fleeting desires, and ultimately, we will discover the true meaning of fulfillment.
Meet individuals where they are and provide resources to help move them from happiness to holiness.
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