We All Want To Be Happy

Psalm 89:15 “Happy are the people who know how to praise You. Lord, let them live in the light of Your presence.” 

We all want to be happy – right? But happiness means different things to different people. I hit the dictionary. Webster’s dictionary defines happiness as “a state of well-being and contentment.” But then it goes on to say that happiness is joy.

Joy and happiness are two different things. Happiness comes from the word “happenstance” and means that as long as our circumstances are good, we are happy. 

Hold the phone!

When was the last time your circumstances were all good? Right? Life is so daily and rarely rolls out according to our plans. Happiness depends on our outer circumstances, but joy doesn’t.

Joy is a deeply rooted confidence that God is in control. Now before you automatically agree with that definition, take a look at your life. Is there enough evidence to support that definition?

We may not always see or understand … or even like what God is up to in our lives, but we can always trust Him. That’s why, when it comes to joy, our inner attitude does not have to depend on our outer circumstances. It is a choice.

Choosing peace over fear.

Choosing faith over doubt.

Choosing trust over disbelief.

Choosing to put one foot in front of the other … believing that God is in on every step.

Honestly, I do not care for this life scenario of constantly choosing God’s plan over my own. It’s hard! But the rewards of choosing His plan blast the consequences of choosing my plan right out of the water.

I have been a follower of Christ for many years. You would think I have this truth down pat. Nope! I am on the very same journey you are on – learning to trust, I mean really trust God. Learning how to walk through my fear instead of allowing it to consume me. Choosing to believe God is who He says He is and that He will do what He says He will do.

God is with you. God is for you.  You are never alone.

Blessings!

Mary