The Pursuit of Happiness

“But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.” 1 Timothy 6:6-11

Happiness often becomes an endless pursuit, not an achievement. The biblical prescription for happiness in the fifth chapter of Matthew opposes the world’s counsel - but offers genuine fulfillment:

“Blessed (happy) are the poor in spirit (the contented person)...” (Matt. 5:3).
“Blessed are those who mourn (the caring person)...” (5:4).
“Blessed are the gentle (the giving person)...” (5:5).
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (the God-fearing person)...” (5:6).
“Blessed are the merciful (the compassionate person)...” (5:7).
“Blessed are the pure in heart (the single-minded person)...” (5:8).
“Blessed are the peacemakers (the loving person)...” (5:9).
“Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness (the obedient person)...” (5:10).

As you meditate on the above Scriptures and ask the Father to apply their truth in your life, lasting happiness can be a possession, not merely a futile pursuit. Christ Jesus is our happiness (Neh. 8:10).

“How blessed is everyone who fears the LORD...” Psalm 128:1