More Than Happy

I just want to be happy! We all have said this at some point: “I just want to be happy. I just want my kids to be happy. If I had more money, I’d be happy. If I had a six pack, I’d be happy. If my life was more exciting, then I’d be happy. If could just go back to normal, then…” We all want to be happy.

The problem with happiness is it depends on what happens to us - happiness is circumstantial. Happiness can come and go from one dip in our portfolio. Happiness can come and go from one doctor’s report, from one phone call from the principal’s office, or a police officer in your rear-view mirror. Happiness cannot be all that God has for us – there has to be more!

This more is called Joy. In the book of Philippians, the word JOY is referenced 19 times. Joy is different than happiness. Joy is more than happy. Joy is different from happiness because JOY IS CONSTANT! When Jesus is the source of your joy, then it doesn’t matter what this world throws at you. He can never be taken away, and He will never let you down.  

Philippians 4:11-12 says, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation.” Paul is content because Jesus is all that he needs. Note that Paul says “I have learned to be content.” What this highlights is there is no quick fix to lack of joy, or easy button to being content.

The secret of contentment is not in what you have, it’s in WHO YOU KNOW. Joy is found in Jesus. Choosing to believe that Jesus is more than enough in every circumstance is NOT easy. It is a learned response. We have to fight for it. You have to choose joy in every challenge. 

Joy is also a CHOICE. Happiness happens by chance, but joy is a choice. You can’t go up to a person who is in the middle of a challenge and say “be happy!” It’s not going to happen! We all have to choose joy, and this choice is not easy. We all go through times in our life when we are in need, and in that time, you can choose to discover that Jesus is MORE THAN ENOUGH.

Joy is found in Jesus. He is more than enough! Philippians 4:19, “19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” When Jesus is more than enough, you can live out Paul’s words, “4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)

Song: Lord, I Need You – Matt Maher

Pastor Joe