New Seasons – Day 11
The secret of true happiness and joy
Bible text(s)
Philippians 3
The True Righteousness
Psalms 37
“Rejoice in the Lord” means to let the Lord be the one to make you happy and give you joy. The people of the church in Philippi thought that if they lived strictly according to the law, then they would be happy. But this kind of thinking implies that the redemptive work of Christ on the cross was in vain (Galatians 2:21). Christ came to pay for our debt precisely because we, as imperfect people, cannot live as the law requires. Fulfilling God’s commandments is not a requirement to be saved. However, this does not make the commandments unimportant, because now we live accordingly to them to show our gratitude to the Lord, because he redeemed us. Paul wants to teach the church in Philippi that it is not the fulfilment of the commandments that will give them true happiness, but that only Jesus can give real happiness and joy.
People seek happiness in many different things. Many will look to the success of their career, the thickness of their wallet or the performance of their children. Others seek happiness by spending a lot of time on their hobbies or on sport. None of these things are unimportant and it is good to strive for excellence in everything you do. However, they will not make you truly happy. True joy can only be found in the Lord Jesus. True happiness and peace of heart comes when the Lord, your Alpha and Omega, takes control of your life. The Bible speaks of happiness as joy. This means a happiness that never ends or disappoints.
Psalm 37:4: Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
The words “in the Lord” (Philippians 3:1 and Psalm 37:4) mean that we are united with him, that we are one with him. We are connected to Jesus by a very deep bond, therefore, we can experience his peace, joy and love, and be happy. Maybe today, you need to seek a quiet place and think about your commitment to Jesus. Is this not perhaps where you will find the happiness you have always been looking for? You can receive it by making Jesus your Lord and following him. He wants you to be happy.
