Monday, November 1, 2010

Better than Happy


Yesterday, I was talking about how happiness is temporary because it is based on circumstances and joy is continual because it isn't.

After one of the services, I spoke with a man that is struggling in life and desiring some relief. What he was looking for was not a current satisfaction in what is. He explained that he needed to be able to look forward with peace. We arrived at the fact that he needed hope and I explained how the Gospel gives hope and it encouraged him greatly.

Hope is a powerful thing. It is better than happiness. It feels similar, but it is very different.

1. Hope is based on what is coming and not simply what is.
2. Hope that is from God produces positive feelings that strengthen the soul.
3. Hope motivates and inspires activity.
4. Hope provides reasons for right action in the present.
5. Hope does not have a conclusion as much as it does a desire.

Being hopeful is better than being happy.

Romans 5:5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

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