Today, March 20, is the International Day of Happiness! As believers, we can cling to the beautiful truth that we can possess a joy that outshines mere happiness. You might find yourself happy about something today, but let’s face it, that happiness isn’t going to last forever. Happiness, oh it’s wonderful, but it can come and go with the wind, blown away by the changing situations that life brings our way. But joy, now that’s a whole different story! Joy isn’t just a fleeting emotion; it’s a deep, abiding state of being. It’s one of the fruit of the Holy Spirit, and it’s something we can strive towards experiencing every single day. This is truly possible because joy isn’t dependent on our circumstances or the things we have; it’s an internal God-given treasure that no one can take away from us. So, as the world celebrates the International Day of Happiness, let’s take a moment to pause and dive into some timeless truths found in God’s Word. In a world that often confuses happiness with temporary pleasures and fleeting feelings, God’s Word offers us a roadmap to true and lasting joy. Let’s journey together as we highlight three key Biblical verses that provide helpful insights on how we can experience joy that surpasses happiness:
Matthew 6:33 (NIV) – “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
It’s not about having it all, but about surrendering it all…
Isn’t it tempting to chase after the things the world tells us will make us happy? Yet, in the gentle whispers of this verse, we’re reminded of a different path. It’s the path of seeking God’s kingdom and His righteousness above all else. When we make Him our priority, aligning our hearts with His purposes, we find a joy that’s deeper and richer than anything the world could offer. It’s not about having it all, but about surrendering it all to the One who is the source of joy.
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
… we’re invited to a different way of living!
In a world that seems to spin faster with each passing day, anxiety can easily creep in and steal our joy. But we’re invited to a different way of living! A way marked by prayer, petition and thanksgiving instead of worry and anxiety. When we bring our worries and concerns before the Lord, He wraps us in His peace—a peace that defies logic, transcends our circumstances and firmly holds our hearts. It’s a peace that guards our hearts and minds, anchoring us in the steadfast and sure truth of Christ Jesus.
Psalm 1:1-3 (NIV) – “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”
… we become … strong, resilient and overflowing with joy.
Psalm 1 paints a beautiful picture of a life deeply rooted in God’s Word. When we delight in His law and meditate on it day and night, we become like trees planted by streams of water – strong, resilient and overflowing with joy. Our roots grow deep, drawing nourishment from the living waters of His truth. And as we flourish in His presence, we bear fruit in season, bringing glory to His name and experiencing the fullness of joy that He offers.
So as we celebrate the International Day of Happiness, let’s choose to embrace and pursue happiness God’s way … joy! Let’s seek His kingdom first, surrendering our worries and anxieties at His feet, and delighting in His Word. For in Him, we find true and lasting joy that fills our hearts to overflowing!