The goal for most today is to pursue whatever makes us happy. And with the self-governing leanings dominating society today, self determines what happiness feels or looks like. The idea of pursuing holiness is unappealing in a self governing environment.

Why is that, I wonder? Perhaps it’s due to a misunderstanding of what being holy is. Personally, I’m not surprised that in today’s world people would choose happiness over holiness. Especially, if our primary source of determining happiness is shaped apart from God’s word.

So, let’s define happiness. One definition of happiness is, “a feeling of pleasure or contentment based on favorable circumstances.” Therefore, as long as our circumstances are lining up with our personal desires, all is well. Disappointments aren’t too big a threat to our happiness as long as they are temporary. After all, reality informs us that life doesn’t always run smoothly.

But what happens when life turns on us? When a season of life is filled with unexpected and sometimes devastating happenings? When we get pushed under and hardly have a chance to come up for air? When the lights go out and we feel as if we are wondering about in the dark? What then?

At times like these would we be willing to admit that seeking happiness isn’t going to cut it? Would we be willing to admit this self pursuit of happiness has been inadequate? After all, no one has lived a life of constant ever ending happiness. So why do we continue in our pursuit of happiness?

Consider this! Satan is a master deceiver and liar. First of all, he will attempt to influence us away from the truths of Scripture. And he will create confusion about the act of praying. When those two components (big time fiery darts) are brought into question, we will begin believing his lies.

Now let’s turn a light on and take a look at the definition of joy. “A deep sense of inner peace, gladness, and well-being, often regardless of circumstances.” So let’s take a look at the following verses:

Nehemiah 8:10, “The joy of the LORD is your strength.”

John 16:22, “No one will take your joy from you.”

Knowing that the joy provided by God can be our strength is reassuring. And knowing no-one can take it from us leaves us feeling secure. But how does one find joy?

First of all, those who believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died to pay the price for our sins, thus making heaven our eternal destination is the source of joy. You know, John 3:16! Therefore, as we encounter the threats to our happiness this joy thwarts the deception brought on by the enemy.

When life slaps us in the face (because it will and often) there is a way to override its effect. Jesus told us to be encouraged because He has overcome the world! As it turns out, those very trials or sufferings we encounter, when endured, will produce the effect of holiness we all need. Pursue happiness and it will elude us. Pursue holiness and we will have more happiness that we could ever imagine.