In part 1 of “Finding Happiness,” we talked about how the conventional (worldly) approaches to happiness are falling far short of their promises. I provided four practices that lead to happiness. If you haven’t had an opportunity to read the first part or need a quick review, you can find it here:
Today we will conclude with four more ways you can discover more happiness in your life. Here they are:
CELEBRATE OTHER’S BLESSINGS
“… love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18, James 2:8 and others)
“Be happy with those who are happy…” (Romans 12:15 NLT)
FOCUS ON OTHERS
“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’…” (Matthew 25:35-46 ESV)
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (Philippians 2:3-4 NIV)
“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.” (Proverbs 19:17 NIV)
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” (Hebrews 13:6 NIV)
PRACTICE BEING GRATEFUL
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6 ESV)
“Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ…” (Ephesians 5:20 ESV)
WRITE DOWN AND MEMORIALIZE GOD’S BLESSINGS
Passover was established to memorialize how God took Israel out of Egypt. – Exodus 12
Joshua set up stones to mark the crossing of the Jordon River into the Promised Land. – Joshua 4
The festival of Purim was established to remember how God saved His people through Esther and Mordecai – Esther 9.
Jesus established communion as a way for us to remember and reflect on what He did for us. – Luke 22
If you practice the eight things in the last two blogs, I am certain you will experience greater happiness and joy in your life. When you do, I would love to hear your testimony. Please send it to me.
U R Blessed!
Rodney