But God Wants Me To Be Happy But

“But God Wants Me To Be Happy”

“But God wants me to be happy” Often used by one seeking to justify sinful behavior – adultery, same-sex t marriage, questionable careers, a h w t u B loose living, etc. e h t s e o d Used when seeking a church that is ? y a s e l b more permissive than God’s word. i B The “health and wealth gospel”. More prevalent because of a weakening of respect for God’s word!

God does want us to be happy” There is a very real sense that God desire us to be joyful Obeying the gospel produces rejoicing – Acts 8: 39

God does want us to be happy” Rejoicing 1 Thessalonians 5: 16, “Rejoice always” Romans 14: 17, the kingdom is righteousness, peace and joy Galatians 5: 22, the “fruit of the Spirit is…joy”

God does want us to be happy” Rejoicing Philippians 4: 4, “Rejoice in the Lord always…” James 5: 13, “Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing. ”

God does want us to be happy” “Blessed” μακάριος, (makarios) pertaining to being happy, with the implication of enjoying favorable circumstances. ” (L&N 25. 119) Matthew 5: 4 -10, the “beatitudes” Romans 14: 22, James 1: 12

God does want us to be happy” Ecclesiastes 2: 24, “Nothing is better for a man that he should eat and drink, and that his soul should enjoy good in his labor. This also, I saw, was from the hand of God. ” Eccl. 3: 12 -13, 22

God does want us to be happy” 1 Peter 3: 10, love life and see good days John 2, “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. ” 3

God does want us to be happy” Does God want us to suffer and The happiness God be in misery? wants for us is NOT for the sake of misery. qualified! But if suffering can make us better It is a happiness it can be. WITHIN good. His will!

Man’s pursuit of happiness God’s definition of happiness is not what man has in mind when he makes this statement He seeks to make God in his image – Romans 1: 22 -23, Philippians 3: 18 -19

Man’s pursuit of happiness The prodigal son – Luke 15: 13, 17 Solomon’s quest for the meaning of life - Ecclesiastes 2: 13, 11

Man’s pursuit of happiness “God wants me to be happy” is not the real truth! It is saying, I want it my way! It is a desire to serve God AND mammon – cf. Matthew 6: 24 It is pride & selfishness Discontent and ingratitude It is rebellion!

Man’s pursuit of happiness “God wants me to be happy”: RARELY only affects you RARELY does it bring TRUE and lasting happiness Is often made by one who knows better! Will result in judgment – 2 Peter 2: 20 -22

How is True happiness found? Realize, God’s ways are not our ways – Jeremiah 10: 23, Proverbs 13: 15. Let God define what happiness is! God demands repentance and obedience – Acts 17: 30, 31 Acts 3: 19 Ecclesiastes 12: 13 -14

How is True happiness found? What are you willing to give up? Serving God is about sacrifice and surrender Moses – Hebrews 11: 23 -26 Paul - Philippians 3: 4 -8

How is True happiness found? Delight in His law Psalm 119: 22 -23, 1: 1 -2 Rejoice in suffering – let difficulties and sacrifices make you better James 1: 2 -4, 1 Peter 4: 1 -2, 1: 6 -9, 4: 13 (Acts 5: 41, 16: 25)

How is True happiness found? Pursue holiness 2 Corinthians 7: 1, Ephesians 1: 3 - 4, Hebrews 12: 10 Rejoice in hope firm to the end Hebrews 3: 6 Luke 10: 20, rejoice that your name is written in heaven

God knows what is best for us. Does your happiness correlate with His will?