Evaluating life by our present conditions and comparing with others is a sure source of “unhappiness”. This is likely one of the most common traps that we fall into. We have food on the table, clothes both on our back and more in the closet and yet we grouse about life! There is a skill that God has demanded that His people learn, and that is contentment:
1 Timothy 6:8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
The thing that I find most interesting about this matter is that ignoring this demand or just plain disregarding it really hurts no one but ourselves. However, when we do it as parents we then teach the same counterproductive behavior to our children and guarantee them a life of unhappiness also. Sometimes I think we have the silly idea that if we refuse to accept life as it is and be contented, we can somehow press or shame God into giving in to our carnal demands. Frankly I know much about silly behavior because I have engaged in it altogether too often! And I have found that God is not to be moved on these matters. The wonderful news is that you can be happy within the next twenty minutes. Just surrender to the Lord. It is your decision.
Happiness is not determined by life’s circumstances, it is determined by your attitude toward them!
