I remember years ago hearing the song, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” and thinking to myself, “If only it were that simple.” According to an article in the New York Press, Americans are, on average, only 69% happy. (Seligman, M.E.P, 2002, Authentic Happiness, New York: Free Press). The general consensus is that we pursue happiness by purchasing things, which only produces a temporary state of happiness. For example, buying a new car can make us feel very happy, but usually that wears off so we think about what else we can buy to produce that elated feeling. Many will admit that shopping is a natural high and can become addicted to it. Though buying things is not necessarily a bad thing, if done with the intention to “feel better”, it has negativity surrounding it.
What we are really seeking is joy, as happiness and joy are quite different. Happiness is a temporary feeling that comes and goes. Joy is more of a permanent state and tends to last, even in difficult times. Psalm 95 states that when we seek God we can find peace, strength, forgiveness, and love and these will bring about inner peace and joy. Galatians 5:22 reminds us that one of the fruits, or advantages of the Spirit, is joy. If you’ve ever met someone who had great joy while going through difficult circumstances in life, you’ve probably met someone who has found their source of joy in God. Jesus endured the suffering of the cross for the joy that was set ahead of him. He saw the big picture and if we will get connected to God, and draw our joy from him, we will be able to discover joy bubbling deep inside of us and radiate it outward, no matter what we are going through!