Harrell Davidson
Everyone is seeking happiness. Millions of dollars are spent each year in the pursuit of happiness. We read a piece recently that quoted some figure in the millions of dollars in RV sales alone. Fame and fortune are just around the corner and we are looking for it. Are we looking in the right places? Some of the most miserable people in all the world have riches beyond comprehension. The big business buys out the little business. The big farmer is slowly taking the small farmer out of the markets and away from a livelihood. What produces happiness for one is misery for another. What does the Bible say?
“And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth” (Luke 12:15). What we own or what we enjoy doing is not necessarily that which pleases God. One should be right toward God. In Luke 12:21 Jesus said: “So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” If we are to please, we must be rich toward Him. Jesus asks us to, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Mat. 6:33). When the apostle Paul wrote to the young man Timothy he said, “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (1 Tim. 6:10). Some say that money corrupts people. We need to be careful and note the “love” of money is that which causes many sorrows and heartaches and not just the money. One who is wealthy and rich toward God is one that makes God rejoice.
There is true happiness in peace and tranquility. Without true peace man would be and will be miserable. True peace comes from our Lord. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). While this statement was made to the apostles it is certainly appropriate for us to note today. That kind of peace can only come through obedience unto, and following Christ. Paul, by inspiration said it this way: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice” (Phi. 4:4). Jesus said that: “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24). Since God is a Spirit, in order for Him to be happy, we must live and participate in spiritual things, that is, things that He has directed.
