Happy Habits

What if it were actually the law of the land that everyone had to be happy?  Sort of like the safety-belt “Click it or Ticket” rule.  Put on a smile or go on trial.  If you were in a miserable mood, you’d get locked up and sent to a piñata party till you got your happy back.  Holla!

I decided to look up the definition of happiness on Bible Gateway, and found there was no clear-cut answer. I did find out what happiness is not from the Sad Sack Scripture – the book of Lamentations.

I am deprived of peace.  I have forgotten what happiness is. Lamentations 3:17 NET

So peace of mind can lead to happiness.  And lack of it can lead to misery.

It might seem cliché, but I think the key to being happy is to keep your mind on positive, uplifting things.

Above all, be careful what you think because your thoughts control your life.  Proverbs 4:23 ERV

I’ll buy that.  But how do you get there when there’s so much going on in the world that can make us feel unsettled?

If you listen to Isaiah, it seems that happiness may be as simple as making a choice.

But be happy and rejoice forevermore over what I am about to create! For look, I am ready to create Jerusalem to be a source of joy, and her people to be a source of happiness.  Isaiah 65:18  NET

Be happy, God says.  I’m about to do something awesome.  You don’t have to carry the burden of what tomorrow may bring; that’s my department.

Happiness can also be contagious.

Anxiety in a person’s heart weighs him down, but an encouraging word brings him joy. Proverbs 12:25 NET

The habit of happiness – partnered with prayer – can see you through almost anything.  And it reminds you that it’s not always about whatever is standing in your way.  Sometimes, it’s about Who’s standing behind you.

Whither Thou Goest

My namesake from the Old Testament, Ruth,

endured,

abided,

and her faith held fast.

As for me?

I’m flawed and unfocused.

I’ve left Your side more times than I can count.

But wherever life takes me, I know You’re already there.

Craft me into something substantive.

Grace me with Your wisdom.

Be my soul’s salvation.

Restore me as I leave the righteous path and return me to Your favor.

Whither Thou goest, by Your Mercy, I shall surely go.