Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the Lord their God. Psalm 146:5 (NRS)  

Our culture places far too much emphasis on "Things" as the source of happiness.   Many people believe that their happiness depends upon objects or experiences. "If only I could have that latest, greatest gadget, If only I could take that lavish trip, If only I could get him or her to like me, as soon as I could have that next promotion, car, toy, etc., I would be happy!"  

Of course everyone wants to be happy!, but looking for happiness in the things of this Earth is not the way to find it, that's looking for happiness in all the wrong places.    

Proverbs 16:20 tells us, "Whoever trusts in the Lord, happy is he." And Psalm 146:5 says that happiness comes to those who find their help and hope in God. The foundation for happiness is a close relationship with the Lord. To fully experience true happiness, it is essential that we do what is necessary to develop that close relationship.   

Here is a list of Ten Rules for Happier Living that can help develop a heart for relationship and happiness.  

1. Give something away.
2. Do something kind for someone.
3. Always give thanks, in any circumstance.
4. Apply yourself to your work, work with enthusiasm.
5. Visit the elderly and learn from their experience.
6. Look intently into the face of a baby and marvel.
7. Laugh often - It's the lubricant of life!
8. Pray and study God's Word to know God's way.
9. Praise God from whom all blessings flow, early and often, every day!
10. Live as though today is your last day on earth.
      

Happiness is to know the Savior,

Living a life within His favor,

Having a change in my behavior--

Happiness is the Lord,

Real joy is mine,

no matter if teardrops start;

I've found the secret-

it's Jesus in my heart!

Happiness is a new creation,

"Jesus and me" in close relation,

Having a part in His salvation--

Happiness is the Lord,

Happiness is to be forgiven,

Living a life that's worth the livin',

Taking a trip that leads to heaven--

Happiness is the Lord,

Happiness is the Lord,

Happiness is the Lord!  

(- Ira F. Stanphill)  

Steve

Happiness is the Lord  Heritage Singers

Our appetites dictate the direction of our lives--whether it be the cravings of our stomachs, the passionate desire for possessions or power, or the longings of our spirits for God. But for the Christian, the hunger for anything besides God can be an archenemy, while our hunger for God--and him alone--is the only thing that will bring victory.

Do you have that hunger for Him? As John Piper puts it: "If we don't feel strong desires for the manifestation of the glory of God, it is not because you have drunk deeply and are satisfied. It is because we have nibbled so long at the table of the world. Our soul is stuffed with small things, and there is no room for the great." If we are full of what the world offers, then perhaps a fast might express, or even increase, our soul's appetite for God.

Between the dangers of self-denial and self-indulgence is this path of pleasant pain called fasting. It is the path John Piper invites you to travel in this book. For when God is the supreme hunger of your heart, He will be supreme in everything. And when you are most satisfied in Him, He will be most glorified in you.