Some books are so well written that they become part of our lives by providing material in the way of quotes or inspiration in the way of characters. One of my favorite quotes is from Pride and Prejudice.
“Till I have your disposition, your goodness, I never can have your happiness”
-Elizabeth Bennet in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice
I think these words should ring true for Christians all over. The ability to be happy comes from the simplicity of being good. Maybe that is why kids tend to be happy. Most men are called simple for being easily pleased, but I think it has to do with their goodness.
8 whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.
-1 Peter 1:8-9
We as Christians are guaranteed joy through Jesus Christ. The hardship and sorrow that life is bound to present may take away happiness for a while, but our joy is everlasting. However fleeting happiness may be, I feel that when I make an effort to be grateful, kind, compassionate and exhibit self-control, happiness seems to multiply.
I know someone who is happy that the sun is out, he can feel the grass under his feet, wind in his hair. Simple things make him happy, but I think he is able to enjoy all those because he is filled with gratitude for another day of health and fellowship with his loved ones.
God intends for us to be happy here on earth. He showers us with blessings and provides us with everything that we need. The only thing standing in the way of our happiness is our attitude. When I pay deliberate attention to the virtues described as the fruit of the Spirit in my day-to-day, I notice that happiness seems to come easy. Some of you may say that we cannot manifest these virtues and that the Holy Spirit needs to bestow these on us. While I do not disagree with that argument, I think as Christians we are constantly being transformed to be virtuous and the Holy Spirit is nudging us towards goodness, all we need to do is surrender and be happy.
‘22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.’
-Galatians 5:22-23
Dear God,
I am thankful for the nudges of the Holy Spirit and Your persistence to transform me. May I glorify You in my ability to be happy and grateful. I pray in Jesus’ Holy name. Amen.