Everyone wants to be happy. For many, happiness is the ultimate goal in life. It’s the one thing that we hope for, work for, and search for. But true happiness isn’t something that comes easily, and it’s not something that we can earn. True happiness comes from serving God and doing His will. So what does that look like? What is the secret of happiness according to the Word of God?
1. Don’t gossip.
Gossip is one of the most common sins, and yet it is also very serious. Each and every human being is made in the image of God; we are all carefully designed, treasured, and loved by Him. To slander and speculate about the mistakes of other people is not only selfish and petty; it’s a direct insult to our Creator.
2. Be a giver.
We all know that we should give. The question is, how much? 2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” We should not give merely because we have to, but because we want to show the love of God, which always brings us joy in the end.
3. Pray without ceasing.
Prayer is essential to life as a Christian because without it, we starve ourselves of the most important relationship we will ever have. Staying connected to God in every circumstance, through the good and the bad, will help us to grow in our faith and be more satisfied with the hand we’ve been dealt.
4. Be hopeful.
Those who say hope doesn’t exist just don’t know where to look. There is always hope, if you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. When you keep your eyes fixed on the promise of heaven, the troubles of this world suddenly seem less significant.
5. Practice and preach the Word of God daily.
Our purpose here on this earth is to glorify God and to win souls for His Kingdom. If we try to go through life without doing any of that, we will naturally be unhappy. If we put God first, however, we will be blessed in unimaginable ways.
6. Forgive those who hurt you.
Matthew 6:15 says, “But if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Holding onto a grudge is never a good idea; it only does more damage to everyone involved. The feeling of letting go and starting anew is unlike any other, and it is a choice we must make continually in order to be happy.
7. Love your enemies.
At times it may seem impossible to love our enemies, but just remember: Jesus died for the same people who nailed Him to a cross. We love because He first loved us, even though we are broken and sinful. When we choose to love sinful people, we are simply reflecting God’s love toward us; and that is the greatest source of happiness.
When we live by the Word of God, we no longer have to keep searching for temporary happiness that only leaves us empty in the long run. We can have eternal joy, because in Jesus, we have all we need.
Jesus bless you!
Nicola
