The Way to True Happinessنموونە

Happiness in the way of the Lord

What is happiness? Our deepest misery is being separated from God. Our highest joy is living in His presence, hearing His voice, being aware of His guiding hand helping us through life, and entrusting ourselves to Him. This means obeying His Word and His teaching, and following as He guides us by His Word and Spirit. This is the psalmist's deep desire. That is how he becomes a happy man.

In our society, life is all about living for ourselves. For many, happiness means being able to do what we want, seeing our wishes and desires fulfilled, not being restricted in anything. The writer of Psalm 119 sees life differently. Only in verse 5 does he talk about himself, and even then, he is not the focus. On the contrary, he focuses on the Lord, His Law and His commandments. He calls out to the Lord, and submits to Him. That determines his happiness. When you focus on God and not on selfish desire, your daily walk will change radically. You are on the perfect path when you walk with the Lord. When the psalmist uses the word 'walk', he conveys a sense of effortlessness, a holy relaxation. It is because he knows in whom he has put his trust. Do not rely on yourself, or on others, to achieve happiness, but rely only on the Lord. He teaches you the perfect way. This is a learning process that will take up your whole life.

The way of the Lord is perfect because this is how He provides eternal salvation. In this life it includes forgiveness, reconciliation, restoration, deliverance, and redemption. Think of all God has done to bring you into relationship with Him. God desires you to be conformed to His image. You were created for that purpose. God rejoices when He sees this in you, and you will rejoice with Him!