Biblical Answer

Understanding True Happiness

Happiness is often misunderstood as something that comes from external sources such as wealth, pleasure, or success. However, true happiness is rooted in joy, which is a deeper and more lasting emotion. Joy is not dependent on external circumstances, but rather on our relationship with God and our obedience to Him. As the Bible teaches, "You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand" (Psalm 16:11). Joy is not something that we can use up or exhaust, but rather it increases as we cultivate it through our relationship with God.

Coping with Loss and Disappointment

Losing a business can be a devastating experience, but it's not a reason to give up on happiness. In fact, it's an opportunity to discover new sources of joy and to deepen our relationship with God. As the Bible teaches, "We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope" (Romans 5:3-4). We can choose to let our struggles and disappointments define us, or we can use them as a catalyst for growth and transformation. By persevering and trusting in God, we can turn our losses into opportunities for joy and growth.

Finding Joy in the Midst of Struggle

It's easy to get caught up in the idea that we'll never find happiness again after a major loss. But this is not true. Joy is not something that we can lose or exhaust, but rather it increases as we cultivate it through our relationship with God. As the Bible teaches, "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit" (Psalm 34:18). We don't have to give up on joy, even in the midst of struggle. Instead, we can choose to focus on the present moment and to trust in God's goodness and sovereignty. By doing so, we can find joy and peace in the midst of our struggles, and we can use them as a catalyst for growth and transformation. Ultimately, true happiness comes from a deep and abiding relationship with God, and it's available to us no matter what our circumstances may be.