Getting Happy

Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous.
Psalm 32:11

Do you know anyone who's afraid of being too happy? For instance, if you were talking with some non-Christian friends, would any of them say that they just couldn't put their trust in Jesus because it might give them too much joy?

Just the opposite would be true, don't you think? Your energetic, go-for-it friends would probably say that following Jesus would make them less happy. They'd be afraid they'd have to give up all the stuff that makes life fun.

Bill Bright, founder of Campus Crusade, said that before he put his faith in Christ, he was a "happy pagan." He thought he was perfectly happy as a non-Christian because he had lots of money and a great job. He says now, though, that he didn't really find out what happiness is all about until he accepted Jesus.

This whole idea should challenge us as believers. Do we show by our attitudes and actions that we are happier, more content, and generally better off than our non-Christian friends? Is there any indication that the forgiveness we enjoy as Christians helps us to "be glad," as David talked about in Psalm 32?

Your friends and fellow students try to get happy in so many ways. Some turn to alcohol, only to suffer the consequences. Some turn to sex and then have to worry about the physical and psychological fallout for the rest of their lives. Others look for it in fast cars or drugs or taking every dare that comes along.

Why not show your non-Christian friends that true happiness and lasting joy come through forgiveness from sin, not indulgence in it. Let them know about "the Lord's unfailing love" (Ps. 32:10). That's what getting happy is all about.

Written By Dave Branon