The Happy Christian
“Happy is that people, that is in such a case: yea, happy is that people, whose God is the LORD.” Psalm 144:15.
Some people only come to church, pay tithes, and give offerings grudgingly, because they think they should. God will not accept grudgingly given offerings. He will only accept it if we do it, not because we think we should, but because we want to.
“Every man according as he purposes in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7.
“All happiness, peace, joy, and success in this life are dependent upon genuine, trusting faith in God.” MYP, p. 410.
If we truly trust in God then we will have success. True joy also comes through giving. I would like to tell you the story of a man who lives in a neat, but humble, cottage. Every year he spends hundreds of dollars on shoes, socks, food c-nd toys, and loads them into his car. Driving down to the poorer section of town he distributes them among needy families. To children he gives clothing or toys; to parents he may give groceries or money. He is not rich. He could, if he chose, spend the money on his house or his own pleasure, but he has chosen to spend it in giving to others and has in that way found happiness and joy. It has been said, “You cannot throw mud without getting some on yourself.” The same is true for happiness. You cannot hand out happiness without absorbing a good amount yourself.
“We should never give to the world the false impression that Christians are a gloomy, unhappy people. If our eyes are fixed on Jesus, we shall see a compassionate Redeemer, and shall catch light from His countenance. Wherever His spirit reigns, there peace abides. And there will be joy also, for there is a calm, holy trust in God.” MYP p.404. If we trust in God He will send His spirit, and where His spirit is there is happiness, joy, peace and love.
“Our happiness depends upon this cultivation of love, sympathy, and true courtesy to one another.” AH, p. 15. If we cultivate love, joy, peace, and courtesy we will have true happiness. Amen.