Are You Happy

Are You Happy "Death and destruction are never satisfied, and neither are the eyes of man." Proverbs 27:20 Are you happy with your life? J. P. Morgan (1837-1913), the renowned financial and industrial magnate was once asked what it would take to make him happy. His reply? "Just a little bit more." By his response Mr. Morgan was affirming the truth of the scripture above. Through my years of Bible study I believe there are five key principles to living a contented life. 1. Contentment is achieved when we make God and His kingdom our first priority:"But first seek his kingdom and his righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well." 2. Contentment is achieved by believing God will meet our needs: "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5) 3. Contentment is achieved by graciously accepting what God allows into our lives: "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances… whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." (Philippians 4:12,13). 4. Contentment is achieved through a life of simplicity over greed: "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it." (1 Timothy 6:6-7. 5. Contentment is achieved by enjoying hard work and its remuneration: "Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work—this is a gift of God." (Ecclesiastes 5:18, 19). If you are not happy and content where you are today, study these 5 principles, apply them to your own life, get free from the chains of worry and fear, and let God take control. Robert W. Brock My Daily Devotional Volume Seven August 12