“For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? For you are our glory and joy.” Philippians 2:19-20

Have you ever looked for everlasting happiness? Maybe you thought, if I could just have the perfect relationship; or a new house; or a raise at work; or a tropical vacation. As Christians we know we cannot find that everlasting happiness. Prosperity is foolish to seek for happiness. Why is this? Trying to have all of our desires met, so that we can have everlasting happiness focuses on the self rather on God. It becomes all about “me”.

C.S. Lewis said our bodies are created by God, like humans created cars. We need fuel to keep us going. But that fuel does not come from being successful, or any earthly desires. But rather, that fuel is God. God keeps our spirits going. Satan will do anything to pull us away from God. He tells us to focus on ourselves, on our wants, desires, successes, to find happiness.

So how do we find happiness then? We look at what Jesus has told us in Matthew 5:1-12. He tells us to be poor, persecuted, meek, and mourning. It is denying the self, and focusing on Him. The eternal life that God has promised us will bring us much more than happiness; it will bring us everlasting joy. C.S. Lewis said, when we give up our self, we will find it. When we give up our life, we will save it. When we give up our wishes, we will find eternal life. We need to keep back nothing. When we do this happiness will follow.

Prayer Dear Lord,

help me to hold nothing back, to give you my all. Amen