(a statement on 'Monk')
So I interview our family about their view of happiness:
Happiness
is...
...a peacefully sleeping baby!
(sheri)
...is when Daddy comes home from work.
(Bryson;
yes, I helped him share his thoughts ;^)
... a smile!
(Andrew)
...when you feel really good inside, and get along.
(Katie)
...playing soccer in the rain!
(TJ)
...only a tear drop away.
(Nick-now what movie is that from??)
...being alive with loved one's
(Joe)
... eternal forgiveness.
(Fred)
So what is happiness really? Personally, I think it is based off of feelings and positive situations, and is very temporary.
JOY is what matters...
JOY...
is a presence of peace from within regardless of outer circumstances.
In a humble way, I share the difference here, as I have had my share of challenges along my life. Some of those challenges come as physical trauma, others as emotional drama...but most of us know 1st hand, somehow, that life is not easy. Do you want happiness...or do you want to seek out true JOY?
It all comes down to a choice...to choose Jesus Christ... or not.
That presence of peace? It is a gift from God, it is the comforter, it is the Holy Spirit that comes from receiving Jesus Christ as our Savior.
Here is a verse I live and breathe daily, and helps me keep things in perspective:
Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16/17
