We often forget that in declaring independence from an earthly power, they made a direct declaration of dependence upon God Almighty. Many of our founders believed in a God who guides the affairs of mankind. Depending on God gives us stability and purpose, and it’s through this dependency that we will have lasting happiness. When we depend on God, we can have confidence that he will guide us down the right path for our lives. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (ESV). Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. And the “who” I am referring to is the Lord himself.īiblical happiness actually goes deeper than simply who we know, but it comes from who we depend on. It isn’t dependent on whether things are going well. The happiness the Bible advocates does not come from what you have. In other words, you can experience happiness regardless of your circumstances. When we read the word “happiness” in the Bible, it is speaking of something that is self-contained. The Bible talks about happiness numerous times, but it defines it in an altogether different way from our culture. It’s time that American Christians use their freedom to live as God intended - dependent on him. As free as we are in America to choose to live for ourselves, we were created to live differently. This pursuit of self may feel satisfying in the moment, and it may even bring some version of happiness, but it is only going to lead to a deeper feeling of emptiness down the road. Scroll through social media for just a few minutes today and you’ll see endless examples of self-interest, self-pleasure, and self-promotion. The problem for many Americans is this desire ends up leading us into a pursuit of self. As we continue to fight daily for our physical and mental health, I think a lot of people have a renewed desire to simply be happy. ![]() The American people, alongside many other nations around the world, are currently facing unprecedented challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. But even in a country that maintains our right to pursue happiness, actually obtaining it can be a struggle. This is really why so many of us try to secure good jobs, desire to live in comfortable houses, and seek out companionship. Most people, deep down inside, want to be happy. What a blessing that we live in a nation that protects our right to pursue happiness. The Declaration of Independence states that we are “endowed by Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” Despite our nation’s imperfections, I am thankful to live in the United States of America. ![]() With Independence Day just around the corner, I have spent some time reflecting on the many freedoms we have as Americans.
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