
Summary
The world is full of definitions and promises about what makes us happy. If we are not careful, many of these myths can leave us deeply unsatisfied. This talk reminds us that God wants to bless us and offers some helpful ways to maintain our joy and happiness, no matter the season we are going through.
Key Scriptures
Mathew 5:1-12 - Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them. He said:
‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
‘Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Ecclesiastes 2:4-11 - I undertook great projects: I built houses and planted vineyards… I owned more herds and flocks than anyone in Jerusalem before me… I amassed silver and gold for myself, and the treasure of kings and provinces. I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.
Matthew 6:33 - But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Philippians 4:13 - I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength
Acts 3:26 - When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways.
Follow up - on your own or in Communities
What does culture tell us about happiness?
What makes you happy in life?
Myth 1: I will be happy when I prosper in life
In what ways have you believed this myth in your own life?
Read Matthew 5:1-12 together. What surprises / challenges/ comforts you?
Myth 2: I can’t be happy because of all the pain and suffering in the world.
Throughout the Bible we come across many different attributes of God
Jehovah Shammah – God is ever present
Jehovah Rohi - He is my shepherd and comforter
Jehovah Rophe – He heals
El Shaddai – He is all suffient. He satisfies
Jehovah Shalom – He is our peace = he fills the deepest need of the human heart
What aspect of Gods character are you experiencing/ could you experience in your current circumstances?
Three ways to experience happiness in any situation
• Turn to God (repent)
“Repent and Believe, the kingdom of God is at hand”
• Grow in Gratitude
Matt 5.12 “Rejoice and be glad”
• Have an eternal perspective
Matt 5.12 “…great is your reward in heaven”
How could any of these help you in your season?
What is God saying to you today?
Pray. Repent and turn to God, thanking Him for who He is. Ask for His perspective and provision in areas of your life where you are struggling to experience deep happiness.
Pray for those who come to mind. That God would meet them in their circumstance and that they would encounter Him and His ways.