Probably the most important question people are asked today is, "Are you happy?" It drives a lot of what the world thinks is important.

Be with the right person and be happy. Are you not feeling good or happy, take this pill. Are you scared of terrorism; be happy and vote for this person. Eating this will make you happy. Looking like this attractive celebrity will make you look happy. Having that promotion with that salary will surely make you happy. If you don't have this specific thing in your life how can you be happy? Oh and you'll have to upgrade it to the new model in six months to be happy again.

The world presents a picture of happiness that is touted as being for everyone and being able to be achieved by everyone. This is also from the same group that tells you and 30 million other people that you can be an individual, set apart from the group, by obtaining their product.

The message of Christianity is that true happiness isn't derived from within yourself or ebbs and wanes on our circumstances. Regardless of it being the good times or the bad times or even the banal times, our focus and identity is on Christ. Christianity doesn't tell us to be giggling with laughter in the most dire of situations, but it is to maintain our focus upon Him who gives life that overflows with joy. It is our choice to seek and follow after Him.

That is the topic from Pastor John Samuel Barnett today.

https://youtu.be/9qu-lj91VcM