The Pursuit of Happiness

Introduction. As Americans there are some principles which establish our identity and view of ourselves. Some of these principles are set down in words we hold in great honor. Among some of the most honored are these from the Declaration of Independence: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, and are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among them are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” We hold happiness very important.

·         Most time off work is spent in trying to attain it.

·         Much of our money and energy is spent on it.

·         There are books, seminars, and classes that suggest ways to achieve it.

How is it attained? Most see the answer in things and circumstances that can be secured. In this attitude many fit Paul’s words (Phil. 3:18-19). This evening I would like for us to explore what the Bible teaches about this effort, which is so important to us—the pursuit of happiness.

I. Solomon’s Pursuit.

A. Wisdom (Eccl. 1:12-18).

B. Pleasure (Eccl. 2:1-11).

C. Folly. Heb. menas “silliness” Bishop’s & Coverdale “foolishness” –Folly is defined as “the lack of good sense” Good News Bible “reckless” (Eccl. 2:12-16).

D. Selfishness (Eccl. 4:4-8, 13-16).

E. Riches. Jane Austin said, “A large income is the best recipe for happiness I have ever heard of.” Is that true? (Eccl. 5:8-20). Elbert Hubbard said, “It is pretty hard to tell what does bring happiness. Poverty and wealth have both failed.”

F. Solomon certainly recognized these things are not the answer: Everything is vanity (Eccl. 1:1-11).

II. The Christian’s Approach. Abraham Lincoln said, “Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” Christians experience pain, sorrow, hardship, and disappointment, but Christians make up their mind to pursue a happiness that is centered on a proper relationship with God.

A.     The Blessed (Matt. 5:1-12).

B.      Seek the kingdom. Burton Hillis has said, “Happiness is not a destination, it is a method of life” (Mt. 6:25-34).

C.      The peace of God (Phil. 4:6-7).

III. David’s Approach.

A. The Blessed man (Psa. 1:1-6).

B. Whose God is the Lord (Psa. 144:15). “Happy are the people whose God is the Lord.”

C. Whose hope is in the Lord (Psa. 146:5). “Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord, his God.” Allen K. Chambers said, “The great essentials of happiness are: something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.”

Conclusion. Solomon’s Conclusion (Ecclesiastes 12:9-14).