Some of the most joyful, contented people I have ever met have been followers of Jesus who understood that despite the circumstances of their lives, they were truly blessed. Similarly, it is easy enough to find men and women who seem to have everything in the way of material comfort—what the world says should make them happy—but who lack the abiding sense of contentment that authentic happiness provides. I have to wonder whether they would consider a trade.
We will receive eternal life in communion with God. Our emotions are fickle; our happiness fleeting. But eternity with God is invaluable. Home Articles Happy or Holy? There is so much tragedy in the world. Doesn't God want us to be happy? Your happiness is the most important thing. An Unhappy World What are we to make of this assertion? More than Happiness So what does God want for us? If not happiness, then what?
Happiness is not only compatible with holiness, it is an essential part of it. Without happiness, holiness is incomplete. Indeed, it is no longer holiness. It is a joy that comes from God and is centred in God. God gives it and God is it. And given that the people had been repenting of their sins, this can only be an Old Testament call to joyful faith in God as their Saviour from sin.
You might feel happy when you have a good day, or get a great compliment, or have the chance to do something really fun. Holiness is not an emotion. It is something you are. To be holy means to be set apart, pure, or sacred. Practically speaking, we can pursue holiness by making choices that help us to be more like Christ.
Unlike happiness, seeking holiness almost always requires sacrifice. Jesus certainly knew the difference between happiness and holiness. Doing so might have made Him happy temporarily, but avoiding temptation kept Him set apart.
In Matthew , we find Jesus trying to rest on a mountainside. They are bland and lifeless. Most people can be motivated only so long by willpower, determination, hype, or fear. Eventually the trials and temptations of life will either cause them to go deeper in their intimacy with the Father or reveal that they are only serving Him superficially.
The motivation for their service is not based on a close relationship with Him. This is the heart of the message of holiness. The pure in heart will get to experience and enjoy Him.
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