I am determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may find myself. For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness is determined not by our circumstance but by our disposition. ~ Martha Washington
In attempting to answer the question, what is happiness, pastor and author, Clarence McCartney, wrote, “Happiness is not found in pleasure. Lord Byron lived such a life if anyone did. But he wrote, ‘The worm, the canker, and the grief are mine alone.’
Happiness is not found in money either. Jay Gould, the American millionaire, had plenty of that. But when he was dying, he said, ‘I suppose I am the most miserable man on earth.’
Happiness is also not found in social position or fame. Lord Beaconsfield enjoyed more than his share of both. But he wrote, ‘Youth is a mistake, manhood a struggle, and old age a regret.’
Neither is it found in military glory. Alexander the Great conquered the known world in his day. But after having done so, he wept in his tent and said, ‘There are no more worlds to conquer.'”
So what is happiness? I believe happiness is a “state” not a “strive”. In other words, I believe happiness is not something we should strive for but rather it is a state of mind that we automatically gain as a result of our choices. Indeed, money can’t make you happy; many friends can’t make you happy; fame or status can’t make you happy and a life of pleasure can’t make you happy.
I have discovered that there is only one place in this world to find true happiness – irrespective of circumstances – and that is by walking in the prefect will of God.
Your Father knows your “then”, your “now” and your “yet to be”; a knowledge too wonderful, too lofty for anyone to attain. Though it may indeed seem at times that it’s the end of the world as you know it but deep within you, if you remain on track with God’s will in Christ, you will always have a true inner sense of peace, contentedness and happiness; a happiness that surpasses circumstance.
“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want”. ~ Philippians 4:12
“God is not a power or principle or law, but he is a living, creating, communicating person — a mind who thinks, a heart who feels, a will who acts, whose best name is Father.” ~ Robert Hamill
