Biblical Answer

Happiness in the Context of Serving Others

The pursuit of happiness is a universal desire. However, true happiness is not found in seeking personal fulfillment alone. As we see in the provided text, happiness is often tied to the desire to serve others. In the context of serving others, happiness is not a selfish pursuit but rather a byproduct of putting the needs of others before one's own. This mindset is exemplified in the story of the business leaders who experience success quickly but often succumb to a lust for more power and wealth. In contrast, true happiness is experienced when we focus on serving others and allowing the joy of the Spirit to work within us.

The Source of Happiness

The Bible teaches that happiness is a direct result of obeying God and following His commands. In Joshua 1:8, we are instructed to meditate on God's Word day and night, so that we may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. This obedience leads to prosperity and good success, which in turn brings joy. This is not a one-time event but rather a continuous process of seeking God's guidance and following His will. As we integrate our lives around God's purpose, we experience a sense of contentment and completion that affects every level of our being.

Cultivating Joy

Cultivating joy is not a passive process but rather an active choice. It requires us to focus on the main thing in life and integrate our actions around that purpose. We must be willing to learn from our failures and use them as opportunities for growth. As we construct an upward road to success, we can experience true happiness that is not based on external circumstances but rather on our relationship with God. By choosing to become experts in joy and serving others, we can experience a happiness that is not bad for us and brings blessings that go beyond our wildest dreams. Ultimately, happiness is not just a feeling but a state of being that is rooted in our relationship with God and our commitment to serving others.