The most common misconception I believe people have about happiness is that we have to find it outside of ourselves. I don’t believe happiness is something you find outwardly. I believe it’s a mindset you develop and practice from within.
There is so much darkness around us and being happy can be hard to experience long-term through immediate and momentary expressions. When the thrill is over, so is our perceived happiness.
True happiness comes from the place of inner peace. A place inside ourselves where the dark things of this world cannot penetrate. Accessing this inward place can be difficult…especially if we allow ourselves to depend on outward immediate gratification and short term fixes.
So how is happiness accessed? Well, I can only give you my process. It begins with coming away from the distractions I experience on a regular basis. I find a place to be quiet and still. I open my Bible, and find any verse that speaks peace and life to me and I meditate on it…allowing the Holy Spirit to envelope my mind and my emotions. As I surrender to this process, I open my heart to hope and the possibilities of good. This moves me towards the knowledge that I am not only loved by God, but that He has my best interest in mind.
Nothing can bring and sustain happiness faster than the presence of God. It takes practice to refine it in everyday living but it works every time.
Psalm 16:11 (NASB):
“You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; (happiness) In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.”
VisionWriter One 