Desire For Happiness Is Universal

Dr. Wiles has launched our “Flourishing Together” adventure with a focus on the domain of Happiness and Life Satisfaction. His sermon series during this season is based in the Gospel of Matthew with an emphasis on chapters 5-7.

The “Sermon on the Mount” includes the “beatitudes” (Matthew 5:3-13). Each of these teachings begins with the word “blessed.” That’s the English translation often used for the Greek word, makarios. Another legitimate translation of that word is “happy.”

As our Pastor has explained, there are “semantic domains” in the science of translation. Various words can contribute different facets of meaning to a common idea. The biblical meaning of “happiness” can include joy, delight, celebration, pleasure and laughter.

The desire for happiness is universal among humans. Everyone wants to be happy!

The Happiness Expert

Gretchen Rubin is known as “The Happiness Expert.” She is a best-selling author with numerous books, interviews and podcasts to her name. She even offers a Happier App you can download on your phone.

Gretchen advises that there’s no one way to happiness. Research shows that around 40% of our behavior is repeated daily, so when we change our habits, we change our lives. Once you identify an area that needs improvement, you set a goal, change behavior, track progress, and celebrate success.

Gretchen suggests 3 stages in “The Happiness Project.”

Stage 1 is preparation. Ask yourself, “What do I want more of in my life?” Better relationships, better health, better finances, better family life? Then ask yourself, “What do I want less of in my life?” Anger, guilt, remorse, boredom?

Stage 2 is setting resolutions. The key is to be very specific. Weekly exercise. Dinner with family. Lunch with a friend. Reading a book. Forgiveness. Gratitude. Make it concrete and manageable.

Stage 3 is keeping resolutions. Success breeds success! Accomplishment is motivating. It’s easier to make and keep promises to yourself when you’re living out your values.

We believe that God is the source of true happiness and flourishing. He created us in his image and he knows what makes us happy. Ask God to help you live life the way he intends.