The Secret of a Happy Life

In God we make our boast all day long, and we will praise your name forever. Psalm 44:8

I was talking with my friend Erika about where people draw their joy in life from. We were discussing the danger that comes from relying on people around you to make you happy. Now, don’t get me wrong. The people we surround ourselves with should certainly lift us up! However, everyone has ups and downs. We are all subject to seasons in our life. And, as a friend, it is unfair to rely on another person to constantly lift you up. It is your job to be there to lift them up sometimes. That’s what friends are for, right?!

It got me thinking about where I draw my joy from. As I mentioned in an earlier post, I strive for peace and joy, rather than happiness. Happiness can be fleeting. But to me, joy is a deep seated trust that the Lord has my best interests at heart, and all things that occur are somehow part of a greater plan that will bring me to fulfill His mission for my life.

“For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.” Jeremiah 29:11

My parents always assured me that God works everything together for the good of those who love him. In feeling so blessed lately, and being keenly aware of all we have to be grateful for, I think the key to finding joy in life is to be grateful. And I do not mean overlooking hardship, but rather, keeping perspective and not being boastful... but grateful.

Look around you and praise God for your life! Tell people what they mean to you. This is something my friend Angela taught me. If you are grateful in all situations, how can you NOT be happy? Even in the worst of situations, there is always someone worse off than you. And in the best of situations, praise God, and pass the blessings along! So, do your best and be joyful in all things.

To me, that is a secret of a happy life.