(TRUTH MATTERS) “The Truth Happiness!” Matthew 5:3-12

“If you’re happy and you know it, then your life will surely show it…”

What’s the use of worrying It never was worthwhile What’s the use of worrying It never was worthwhile. So pack up your troubles, In your old kip bag And smile, smile, smile.

Who do you think is telling the truth Who do you think is telling the truth? Is culture or is Jesus telling the truth?

to see happiness is given to those who seek first the agenda of God Purpose: to see happiness is given to those who seek first the agenda of God

I What Happiness is NOT (3 Myths Concerning Happiness) A. Happiness is Not Deserved

It is stated in this document, not the Constitution, that we all have the unalienable right to pursue happiness…

I What Happiness is NOT (3 Myths Concerning Happiness) A. Happiness is Not Deserved B. Happiness is Not Dependent

Culture says, “If you’re going to be happy it all depends on the right circumstances in life.”

Culture defines circumstances for us… It’s all about LUCK!

Philippians 4:11-13 “…I’ve learned to be content whatever the circumstances…whether well fed or hungry, living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.”

I What Happiness is NOT (3 Myths Concerning Happiness) A. Happiness is Not Deserved B. Happiness is Not Dependent C. Happiness is Not Departing

If you think happiness is deserved, then you’ll view happiness as a fleeting reality. This also explains why we have a live for the moment culture…

Many live as if there is little if any responsibility involved with having a content life – it’s always somebody else’s fault…

II What Happiness IS (3 Truths Concerning Happiness) A. The Pursuit of “Community”

John 15:10-12 “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you; and that your joy may be made full. This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.”

Building relationships is key to having full/genuine joy…

II What Happiness IS (3 Truths Concerning Happiness) A. The Pursuit of “Community” B. The Graciousness of Generosity

“…it is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35 “…it is more blessed to give than to receive.”

John 13:15-17 “For I gave you an example that you also should do… If you know these things you are blessed if you DO them.”

II What Happiness IS (3 Truths Concerning Happiness) A. The Pursuit of “Community” B. The Graciousness of Generosity C. The Pondering of Eternity

“…the passing pleasures of sin.” Hebrews 11:25 “…the passing pleasures of sin.”

“… I think we have lost the old knowledge that happiness is overrated… Our ancestors believed in two worlds and understood this to be the solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short one. We are the first generation of man who actually expected to find happiness here on earth and our search for it has left us so unhappy…”

“Consider it all joy, my brethren when you encounter various trials.” James 1:2 “Consider it all joy, my brethren when you encounter various trials.”

Matthew 25:41 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your Master’s happiness!”

Big Ten football was in full swing… Michigan State was beating Wisconsin in Madison… But, ever once in awhile the 60,000 strong Badger crowd would lift up a roar. Why?

John 16:22 “… I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.”

Conclusion and Summary The truth concerning happiness is this: you don’t get happiness by pursuing it. You get happiness by pursuing Jesus. He is ready and willing today to take the miseries of this life and give you hope and promise of life with Him forever!