Finding Happiness
The pursuit of Happiness • Sermon • Submitted • Presented
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Why are some people happier than those in a far better circumstance? The answer is perspective.
1. Finding happiness can depend upon our perspective.
Story: Widow who depended on her two sons to provide for her. One son sold umbrella’s the other sold fans. Every morning the mother would check the weather. Sunshine brought her misery, because no umbrella’s would sell. Rain brought her misery because no fans would be sold. Both conditions caused her to fret. Friend remarks one day. If the sun is shining, people by fans. If it is rain’s people buy umbrella’s. Change your attitude; be happy.
Helen Keller - "When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us."
2. Remember God can bring happiness out of anything.
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
All things God works for the good
A loss is not a loss if you learn from it and make a commitment to get better. Sarah loss at a swim meet. Mom nurtures the way most Mom’s do. Then it is Dad’s turn.
3. Finding Happiness in contentment.
12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation
Have you ever said; I will be happy when I get (fill in the blank)
Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” Abraham Lincoln
4. You can chose to find happiness.
Happiness researchers have found that circumstances can contribute about 10 percent of our happiness.
Next is our internal makeup, including genetic factors and temperament, which account for 50 percent of our happiness level. (Elaborate on)
People think that funny people are some of the happiest people on the planet. If that was true then comedians should be the happiest people but it is just the opposite. They are some of the most unhappy people. It’s the sad clown paradox: The men and women who make people laugh for a living often struggle with mental health challenges offstage that are hardly a laughing matter.
The final 40 percent is entirely within our control: our choices, behaviors, and thoughts. Yes we can control our thoughts. Those who believe they can’t help the way they think or feel are simply wrong.
2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Be transformed by the renewing our your mind.
This change in thinking is our responsibility.
Winning lottery ticket: story
5. Find happiness enjoying things that make you happy.
12 So I concluded there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can.
6. Finding true happiness in Jesus.
13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
3 Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.