Rethinking Happiness: A Deeper Pursuit
In our modern culture, the pursuit of happiness is a top priority. As parents, we often hear ourselves saying, “I just want my kids to be happy.” And why not? Happiness is a good thing, and God, the creator of happiness, designed us to experience joy. However, we must consider the source of our happiness.
The Elusive Nature of Happiness
If we’re honest with ourselves, we know that happiness is fleeting. Life is hard, and suffering is an inevitable part of our journey. If our goal is to always feel good, we’ll be disappointed. Happiness rooted in temporary circumstances will ultimately leave us unfulfilled.
A Firm Foundation for Happiness
So, what can we anchor our happiness to? What will we teach our kids to find joy in? The answer lies in establishing our happiness in the gospel and the person of Jesus. As we draw closer to the Lord, remembering His goodness, kindness, and sovereignty, we can find happiness even in the midst of suffering.
The Paradox of Suffering
It may seem counterintuitive, but suffering is what shapes and changes us. It strengthens our faith, gives us fellowship with our Savior, and helps us grow more like Christ. By rooting ourselves in Christ, we can be happy even in difficult circumstances.
Rethinking Our Pursuit of Happiness
Happiness is not the problem; it’s what we’re happy in that matters. As we reevaluate our pursuit of happiness, let’s focus on finding joy in the eternal, rather than the temporary. By doing so, we’ll discover a deeper, more lasting happiness that transcends life’s ups and downs.
About the Author
Jen Oshman is a missionary, pastor’s wife, and mother of four daughters. She’s the author of Cultural Counterfeits and Enough about Me, and hosts the podcast All Things. Her family currently resides in Colorado, where they planted Redemption Parker, an Acts29 church.
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