The Secret of Happiness

Where were you on July 17, 2009? What was your attitude like? Were you grumpy? Were you irritated? Were you frustrated and angry? If so, you were missing out on what that day was all about. The 17th of July was the first annual Global Day of Happiness according to a proclamation signed by the mayor of Durham, NC. Urging people to observe the holiday, the proclamation says that the day 'will help recognize simple pleasures, like a smile -- the more in tune with one's happiness, the more one is inspired to commit good deeds.' It adds that 'mental health is a worldwide issue, and happiness increases confidence, and self-esteem -- which leads to success, and a healthy lifestyle.'

Problem solved! Moving on to world hunger...oh, wait. You aren't completely satisfied that creating a Global Day of Happiness is enough to overcome frustration, sadness and depression? You are a cynic, aren't you? Join the club. I admire the attempt to try and spread some joy in the world, but is pasting a smile on our faces really the key to happiness and contentment in life, as if our attitudes must somehow follow the structures of our facial muscles? I've known too many people who can smile through the pain to believe that. Sure, it's great to recognize and celebrate happiness, but where are we supposed to find it?

Happy are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord. Happy are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths.
Psalm 119:1-3 NLT

The Bible sums up the secret of happiness for us in three verses. It's not complex or overstated. It doesn't require a master's degree to understand. There are not a series of vague exercises to implement. Simply search for God with all you have and follow him. That's it. Happiness equals that. Interestingly, it doesn't say 'happy are those who find God.' All we have to do is stay on the search.

Do this...peer through the lies that we tell ourselves about what will make our lives complete, look at yourself honestly and ask yourself this question: Am I truly happy? Or you could ask yourself this: Am I truly searching for God with all my heart? Ultimately it's the same question.