To be happy or not?

This morning I have been wrestling with a new website template. Well, really I have been wrestling since last night. I purchased the thing and then have been unable to upload it to our hosting service. Now I like a problem, researching the options and solving it. That’s what I like. That is what makes me happy solving the problem. I did not know until recently how happy that made me.

About a year ago I bought a brand new compact tractor. Within 6 months it became difficult to start then difficult to get the starter to operate. That went on until May when I replaced the ignition switch (under warrantee) and both problem are solved. Just to test it I have gone out at various times to start it and each time when it started quickly. I was happy. Seems strange I was happy but I was and still am when it starts right up. I did not know it had been bothering me or that I was unhappy!

Happiness is an internal emotion and one that is fleeting. We can be happy one moment and sad the next. Tears of joy can lead right into tears of sorrow. No one else makes us happy. The founding fathers knowing that did not guarantee happiness rather the “pursuit of happiness.” Recently a ministry leader made a statement that God wants us to be happy so do what makes us happy. Our happy is fickle. Solomon tried everything and did everything and nothing made him happy. His exploits and conclusion are found in Ecclesiastes. No, even God is not out to make us happy. Jesus promised something different.

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:28-30 The Message

Did you see it? Jesus promises REST. Come to him and “you will learn how to live freely and lightly.” I love that. Rest comes when we give up the struggle of trying to be god of our family, job, church, friends, relationships, ourselves, well, you name it. We just need to STOP, come to HIM and REST. Sit and soak in the presence of the PRESENCE. HE is where we find rest, peace and in the most intimate way happiness. Our happiness is only found in the completeness of Christ who has sealed and made certain a believers past, present and future. What could make me happier? Well maybe a new “working” website? No not really!

In HIS Service and yours

Bro G

I found this video of Brad Millard from MercyMe. It is along the lines of the happiness we so long for.