Jul 21, 2019 | Rev. Joshua Hagstrom

Nothing will make you happy

Nothing can lead to deep, lasting happiness. If our jobs, our “stuff,” and our money by themselves will not enable us to achieve this kind of happiness, what will? What are the sources of your happiness? How does your faith play a role?

If you are looking for ideas on how to talk with God about your happiness, Matt Miofsky offers a good starting point:

“Gracious God, you know what each of us carries in our lives. You know when we’re looking and what we’re chasing in our search for happiness. And so, God, today help us listen to the wisdom of so many who have come before us - scientists and philosophers and kings and theologians who say it’s not money, it’s not work, it’s not power, it’s not having fun; it’s what we invest in—good relationships with you, with ourselves, and its other people that brings lasting happiness. May your Holy Spirit fill us with the wisdom to come back - to listen and learn - and ultimately to live out of the truth that you teach us. We pray these things in the name of the one who came to restore our relationship with you, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”

 

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Series Information

We all dream of being happy. If we could just lose the extra weight, get the job, buy the house, we could truly be happy. But over time, it begins to seem as though lasting happiness is unattainable. Despite our best efforts, true happiness will never be a reality for us. So how do we find lasting happiness and contentment in our lives? Maybe the answer isn't in our own lives at all.
 
Matt Miofsky connects the existential question, "Am I happy?" with basic theology and unexpected biblical texts. Starting with the book of Ecclesiastes, considering if any 'thing" can make us happy, he explores the value of relationships, a forgiving lifestyle, living in the present, feeling gratitude, and learning to release control. Using scripture and these themes as a guide, we will explore this topic in worship as part of a summer reading series.