How the bible defines true happiness

[jennifer_bloom]

The bible talks about how wealth is useful but also how wealth will disappear if it is used purely to buy recreation, hobbies, visuals and food, so what is the purpose of life, if it isn’t the pursuit of enjoyment and temporary bliss?

I believe the bible teaches that love, purpose, meaning, appreciation and gratitude are more satisfying than the superficial trimmings of life that the very rich have access to, in the same way that a real home made fruit smoothie tastes better than one you buy from a market or store.

Just like diamonds you mine for look better than diamonds people make in a laboratory, so love is more satisfying, more delightful and more fulfilling than enjoyment or sensory experiences and we know the senses do not satisfy, which is why so many celebrities end up addicted to drugs or mentally ill.

[loves2learn]

These are good morals to live by in general. Material possessions or stuff never bring happiness.

[HMedlej]

As a person, I do always work reverse pleasures, even for painful things. But now I think I must reverse my thinking and start seeking pleasures for good.

[HMedlej]

Maybe even this is reverse because I am used to work in reverse.

[HMedlej]

You get what I mean?

[HMedlej]

For example, if I wanted to sleep, I wake up, and if I wanted to wake up, I sleep. If I wanted something, I choose something else. But I thought this is complete mess, so now I am starting to do things as they must be done.

[loves2learn]

I mean, sort of. Good to talk yourself into doing the right thing.

[HMedlej]

Everything I want is right.

[HMedlej]

Even though I am not a priest, I do this.

[loves2learn]

It is good to live an honest life without regret.

[loves2learn]

Thank you kindly for the mho :)

[Julious0202]

true happiness is to be in full communion with Christ

[Miristheiss]

It talks of peace and contentment... not happiness.
Mainly be doing God's word and walking with God and obeying his commands, serving others, loving others.

It say to "deny yourself" (and all of your self absorbed, selfish wants)
Jesus said: "Whoever seeks to save his life shall lose it but whoever loses his life FOR MY SAKE the same shall save it"

His teaching contradicts the world which preaches to live it up, you are the most important thing around, get all you can get, get yours, get rich, reach the top, drink party, live it up, being successful is the way to happiness.

His teaching is all about denying yourself, putting away selfish ambition and following God.

God resists proud people: "“God resists the proud,
But gives grace to the humble.”
"Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’
But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’
I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

[BobbyC65]

The Good News: The only source of true happiness is the Lord. All of the things you receive in your life that give you happiness are because you believe in God. “Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy.” The Good News: The people who make a few sacrifices will receive life-long happiness and good health. Oct 2, 2019

[Ceslovas]

True. so True! My farther used to say with his silent strict but loving true warrior face:"son, focus on real things... what has true meaning.. something that last, everything else will dissapear, in time. Remember my words. He then laughed:write it down if u have bad memory😂I Love my farther... it took awhile to understand and accept within his words.. stupid me.

[HMedlej]

The Romans' life was all about seeking pleasures. But why not both pleasures and love. They depend upon each other. That does not mean there is no pains. But when love comes along with pleasures, then it would be perfect.

[bodiesands]

Interesting counterargument

[Seangreen]

You can't take the money with you. Money is meant to be spent. It does no good hoarding it just to die with it in the bank.

[Darksign]

I agree. Purpose and relationships with people are key to happiness

[Anonymous]

This life and its attractions is just transient and will pass.