Finding True Happiness as a Christian

Happiness is an individual’s internal feeling. Not dependent on what happens to us, but how we view it. It’s a choice. We control it, not others, or circumstances (Proverbs 17:22). Happiness, as Christians understand, isn’t just about feeling good. It’s about trusting in and finding peace in something far greater than ourselves.

Living in the world but not of it is what Christ calls us to do (John 17:14-16). It’s a tough balance. We engage in society, work in it, raise families, yet know this isn’t our true home. The world around us pushes its version of happiness, rooted in material things, being the best, and fleeting experiences. We know differently. We belong to Christ, and that changes everything.

Satan works tirelessly to distract, create conflict, and amplify anxiety through regret about past sins and worry about future unknowns. Satan’s game is to foster worry about things outside our control (1 Peter 5:8) and to shift focus from God to the world. It’s subtle sometimes, loud other times, but always there. He knows that when we focus on God, his influence shrinks. He uses fear, division, comparison, and anything else to get us to look away from Christ.

Yet, we are called to be Christ-like (Philippians 2:5). That’s not easy. It means living selflessly, with patience, love, and trust in God’s plan. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but rather, of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7.

Jesus didn’t just leave us to figure it out on our own. He gave us the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17). A gift to all humanity . . . residing in our hearts . . . guiding us, and providing comfort.

Through the Holy Spirit, we defeat Satan’s conflicts (Romans 8:26-27). No matter what happens in this world, focusing on God in each moment gives us strength and peace. The world may throw trouble, confusion, fear, but our faith allows us to rise above. Not because we’re strong, rather because He is. That’s why Paul could say, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances” (Philippians 4:11). It’s not about the circumstances. It’s about focus.

Our faith transcends earthly knowledge. We can’t comprehend God’s ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). That’s what faith is—trusting what we can’t see or fully understand (Hebrews 11:1). Everything works for God’s glory, even the things we don’t understand or the pain we endure. It’s not meaningless. It’s part of a bigger picture (Romans 8:28). A picture we might not fully grasp until eternity.

Our ultimate goal isn’t happiness in this life. It’s eternal life with God in heaven (John 3:16). That’s the focus. So, while the world chases temporary happiness, Christians keep their eyes on God because He is the source of our happiness, no matter what this world throws at us.

Luke Frey grew up in a Lutheran church and believed in the Holy Trinity from his early years. His relationship with Christ began while recuperating from a life-changing illness later in life. After a 40-year absence, Luke has moved to his childhood community, and his mission is spreading God’s great word by living a life of Avodah and helping others come to know God’s peace during their time on earth. He is blessed with two beautiful daughters and loving family, friends, and colleagues.

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