We all want to be happy, successful and wealthy. We even have the “pursuit of happiness” written into the Declaration of Independence. (Please note it is the “pursuit” not necessarily the achievement of happiness.)

There is a danger of making my happiness my god. The “social gospel” or the “feel good theology” that is preached can be more focused on one’s happiness rather than on one’s relationship to God. So the guiding factor in decision making becomes, “Does it make me happy?” And if the answer is yes, then do it. The moral implication based upon just the issue of one’s own happiness becomes a trail of sorrow and regret and what appeared to bring happiness turns to sadness.

God calls us to be holy. Being able to walk with God each day is more important than short term gratification. My children ask permission for many things that they believe will make them happy, but I know they won’t bring happiness and I tell them, “No.” I hear from them how mean I am and how I want to take all the fun out of their life. But I love them and want them to be safe, healthy and whole. I believe God has the greater knowledge of what is best for all and loves us too, even more than I love my kids. God knows what makes us happy. We don’t! So instead of pleasing ourselves we should be more concerned about pleasing God.

I Thessalonians 4:1 states, “Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.” Later in verse 7 of the same chapter, Paul writes, “For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life.”

Happiness over holiness leads to sadness. Holiness over happiness leads to joy.