• "Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" is one of the most familiar phrases in the Constitution of the United States. Although no one is guaranteed that they will find happiness, the right to seek happiness is one of the main declarations found in our Constitution.
• Many "things" we read and hear, promise us some form of "happiness" at a distance. But once we taste and experience whatever we have been promised to bring us to a state of happiness it is empty and vain, worthless and a waste of time. What then are we to do?
• A Psalmist gave us a "formula" for happiness. He declared with enthusiasm, "Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to Him, You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours!" Certainly God's promise for being blessed - or happy - far exceeds whatever promise any man or group of men could guarantee.
• The happiness that God guarantees is for those who fear and follow Him. It is not a fear of being terrorized by a vengeful God - but a fear that results in reverential awe and worship of a God who loves them and wants their best. It is a fear that establishes a trust in Him that "without Him I can do nothing that is worthwhile but with Him I can do all things well so I will rely on Him for everything!"
• This fear of forsaking God and not following His will or His ways creates a dependency upon Him for all things in our life. If we do that we will find His happiness.
• Prayer: God, grant us the willingness to admit that true happiness is a gift and is found only in Your grace. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
• Scripture for Today: Psalm 128:1-2 Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to him. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours.
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