Can I Be Happy? Yes, You Can – Chapter 1

CHAPTER 1

Happiness is a decision

Be careful for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

– Philippians 4:6-7

We all have the power to choose happiness, and those who appreciate life should make the conscious decision to prioritize their own happiness. It’s remarkable how easily we allow small inconveniences to overshadow our joy. True happiness can be found within ourselves, stemming from our state of mind and perspective on life, rather than relying on external factors such as substances or material possessions. This inner contentment can be attained through practicing obedience to and following the teachings of God, embracing compassion, gratitude, and love for ourselves and others.

The scriptures in Philippians 4:7 say, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” It’s surprising how seemingly insignificant things can deeply upset some individuals, even though they could be resolved quickly. If you often get caught up in trivial matters, remember that you can choose your response and maintain a sense of true happiness.

I want to emphasize the importance of focusing on the positive elements of life to nurture a sense of divine happiness and fulfilment. God’s divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness. This power was given to us through the knowledge of the one who called us to His glory and excellence (2 Peter 1:3). God has promised us all these things. If you count your blessings, you will find that God’s blessings far outweigh your challenges. As the songwriter says, ‘Count your blessings, name them one by one, and you will be healthy and happier.’ The scripture says in Psalm 103:2-5, ‘Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.’ However, many people are like the Israelites, delivered from 431 years of Egyptian slavery and bondage on their journey to the promised land, complaining and grumbling against Moses and God. If you are constantly grumbling against God, He may not answer your prayer because you are an ingrate.

Happiness is not just a state of being, but a journey of personal growth. It’s about owning up to our actions, not shifting blame onto others, and refraining from making excuses. For those who follow the Christian faith, it’s about acknowledging one’s wrongdoing and seeking forgiveness from the Lord. For those who do not adhere to the Christian faith, it’s about acknowledging mistakes, offering sincere apologies, and striving to become a more improved individual. This journey of growth is the key to true happiness.

It’s important to realize that everyone faces challenges and obstacles in life, but these should not be the defining factors. Instead of fixating on your problems, it’s essential to shift your focus to the things you are grateful for. When individuals compare their own struggles with the significant challenges others endure, they often develop a deeper appreciation for life. This act of empathy, of understanding and sharing the feelings of others, is a powerful tool in finding happiness. When we take the time to empathize with the difficulties others face, it often results in a greater sense of happiness and appreciation for the blessings in our lives. Similar to the undeniable joy that comes with the birth of a baby, it’s crucial to strive to maintain that same level of joy throughout life. Authentic happiness stems from within and is profoundly influenced by our perspective on life. It’s crucial to remember to emphasize the positives and acknowledge our blessings rather than letting our challenges weigh us down.

We should choose to be happy because we can overcome any challenge by embracing a day-by-day approach to life. The facts about life show that most worries about the future that people harbor never actually materialize. Without joy, one cannot draw water from the wells of salvation. Isaiah 12:3: “Therefore, with joy, you will draw water from the wells of salvation.” Many individuals fail to recognize opportunities for happiness because they are overly focused on expecting challenges that rarely materialize. If we could live day by day, there would be far fewer instances of overwhelming stress. Embracing each day as it comes is the path to keeping your joy and being happy in life. It is essential to embrace each day with intention and purpose, maximizing every moment while actively shaping a brighter future through strategic planning and goal-setting.

Yes, you can find happiness, so don’t let worries about the future weigh you down prematurely. Likewise, it’s important to recognize that the past does not have the power to determine your future. Release your apprehensions about the past and wholeheartedly welcome the potential and opportunities of tomorrow. Many people are excessively anxious about tomorrow, endlessly speculating what will come to pass. However, there’s no need to worry about tomorrow when you trust in the One who holds the future in His hands because you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13). When you direct your attention to acknowledging and appreciating the positive aspects of your life, rather than dwelling anxiously on your problems and troubles, you pave the way for experiencing profound and divine happiness.

Explore more from Dr. Pastor Emmanuel Atoe inspiring collection and continue your path toward growth and empowerment:

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