Do you want to be happy? Do you continually seek new ways to make yourself happy? Are you consumed with trying to be happy? Have you found that happiness does not seem to last? Would like to know why? Would you like to know a better way?
We see people try a multitude of things to make themselves happy. Some latch on to drugs or alcohol. Some become addicted to buying things. Some try to eat their way to happiness. Still others will jump from one relationship to another seeking to find happiness.
We are told where and how to find happiness at the very beginning of the book of Psalms. The first step is to no follow wicked advice. We know there are people who give bad advice. They may even do it just to see someone fail. Or they may be involved in nefarious activities and seek to lure us into them. Avoiding them contributes to our happiness.
Next, we are told to avoid hanging around with those that complain. We know people who seem to do nothing but complain about something. Rather than sitting and listening to them, get up and walk away. Their complaining will only bring us down.
True happiness comes from obeying God and following his commands and principles. We know God will not lead us astray. He will not give us bad advice. When we meditate on God’s commands and principles, our lives are better, leading to more happiness. Not only are we happier but we produce fruit—good fruit. We also will not wither in the face of hard times. Rather than buckling under pressure, we stand in God’s promises.
I pray we all seek the true happiness that comes from God. I pray we avoid the negative advice of others. I pray each one of us hold onto God’s commands, principles, and promises. Seek true happiness. Avoid complainers. Avoid bad advice. Hold onto God’s commands. Walk in God’s principles. Trust in God’s promises.
Psalm 1:1-3
Happy are those
who do not follow the advice of the wicked,
or take the path that sinners tread,
or sit in the seat of scoffers;
but their delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law they meditate day and night.
They are like trees
planted by streams of water,
which yield their fruit in its season,
and their leaves do not wither.
In all that they do, they prosper.
Marty Pressey 