Happiness

Lately, I've found myself pondering what makes people happy. I heard someone say that his happiness is directly related to his accomplishments, blessings he's received, and the wonderful friends and family he has. But, what if he hadn't accomplished anything? What if his blessings were on hold and family and friends had left him feeling abandoned and alone? Could he still feel happiness?

Can people who base their happiness on other people and material things still be happy in times of hardship, loss and uncertainty? In the past, my answer would have been no, because I've been there. When I didn't have any money, I was miserable, worrying about why I was broke and where I was going to get the money needed to pay my bills. I worried about why some people had more than I did when I was working so hard to get what they had.

I based my happiness on material things: money, belongings, and friendships, but soon came to realize that those things come and go. They are not definite or certain. Money is spent, friends move on, belongings waste away.

I've found that the only thing that is certain and lasting is God and my relationship with Him. Through poverty and wealth, good times and bad, God keeps me strengthened and encouraged. He has gotten me past material happiness to experience something more.

God revealed to me during meditation some time ago that I have not because I ask not. He reminded me that I don't have to worry about the things that others have because all I have to do is ask and it's mine. He's given me peace in the midst of trial and lack. I may not have much money or many belongings, but I'm rich in the Lord, and that makes me happy.

The bible says in Philippians 4:6-8 that I should be anxious about nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let my requests be made known to God and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard my heart and my mind through Christ Jesus. This comforts me and makes it easier for me to not complain and worry about what I don't have.
 
I recall laying in my comfortable bed in my warm apartment and still worrying about how I was going to pay my next bill or get my next meal. What I've found is that with God, even with no money and no possessions, I can be happy and worry free. I've realized that faith in and dependence on God is the only way to true happiness. Being grateful for what you have and praising Him even in the midst of trial and lack can bring you to a place of complete calm and peace.

I've been more at peace sleeping in a shopping cart than I felt sleeping between soft sheets and under a warm comforter. God is the only true comforter. He will ease all of your pains and bring you happiness when you're broke, when you've lost a loved one, and even when you're homeless and sleeping on the streets.

Though I am thankful for my new job, a roof over my head, and warmth on cold winter nights, I now know that I don't need those things to be thankful and happy. With God, I have more than happiness. I have joy!