Readings: 1 Samuel 20:1-21:15; John 9:1-41; Psalms 113:1-114:8; Proverbs 15:15-17
Thursday, May 17, 2012
"Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil. Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred." -- Proverbs 15:15-17
In an age where there seems to be a pervasive sense of unhappiness and dissatisfaction, we are bombarded with images, sounds, and messages informing us of all the things we need in order to find that elusive thing called "happiness". We look for it in relationships, sex, chemical substances, and money. We get what we think will do the trick, and it feels good for a while until we find it doesn't last. If you feel dissatisfied with your current state, ask yourself what you would like in your life to be different. Then consider the energy you're pouring into the efforts to make it so. What are you sacrificing? Whenever we choose one path, we reject another. Make sure that the end you are pursuing justifies the means. Are you sacrificing time with loved ones? Are you including God in your plans and your efforts? Can you find contentment and joy in your present even in the midst of dissatisfaction? Be clear and focused. You get one shot at life. Don't squander it.
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ReplyDeleteIsn't trying to find happiness before all other things like trying to trying to fill a pool before you dig the hole? If you are trying to capture happiness without a solid foundation of joy and love around it, then it will be a fruitless effort that has no lasting effect... This is a great reminder to refocus my priorities. It's amazing how many times I need hear lessons like this in order to keep from being distracted.
ReplyDeleteThis is Matt Davis, btw.
DeleteWell said Matt! My grandfather shocked me when he said he did not wish a happy marriage for us when we got married. "Instead", he said, "I wish for you a strong marriage filled with joy." I get it. Happiness is more like a mood, whereas joy is more like a substance that can be present even in the absence of happiness.
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