KEYS TO A HAPPY LIFE

 

In the book of Philippians Paul offers several keys to happiness. Some people are happy; others actually work at making themselves and those around them miserable. Let us all use these keys and learn to be happy.

 

Receive grace and peace from Jesus Christ: "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:2) Always focus on the good things of life, especially on forgiveness and hope.

 

Remember to be thankful: "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now." (Philippians 1:3-5) Be thankful for other people and for the good they do. Be thankful for salvation, the church, and the opportunity to serve.

 

Remain humble and have the spirit of Christ: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 2:5) If you think too highly of self you may get to feel sorry for yourself. Both attitudes will make you miserable. Those with a humble, Christ-like spirit find happiness regardless of circumstances.

 

Renounce complaining and murmuring: "Do all things without complaining and disputing." (Philippians 2:14) Those who hold grudges and complain about every little slight will always be miserable. You also guarantee yourself and others misery if you think you are entitled to special privileges.

 

Rejoice in your relationship with the Lord. "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4) True happiness belongs to those who are "in Christ." Christians have much to rejoice about, especially forgiveness.

 

Realize God’s care for your life: "And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19) Money is not the answer. God is the answer to man's needs.

 

   Do not feel sorry for yourself. Lift up your head and heart. Be thankful and enjoy the peace of God. "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7)

 

   To become a Christian you must hear the gospel and believe (John 6:44-45), repent of sins (Acts 2:38), confess Jesus as Lord (Romans 10:9-10), and be baptized into Christ (Romans 6:3-4). After baptism we must remain faithful. (Revelation 2:10)

 

By Charles Box, Walnut Street Church of Christ, P.O. Box 551, Greenville, Alabama 36037 USA           

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