Have you ever found yourself searching for happiness while shopping online? Or maybe if you can just get the latest video game, you know you’ll find satisfaction. Or maybe it’s as soon as you’re moved out of your small apartment and into a bigger place, you promise yourself you’ll never daydream about what could be ever again!
Most of us know that true happiness doesn’t come from material things (as enticing as it can be to get something we want!). But we don’t always think through practical ways to find actual happiness in our lives. Spoiler alert: it’s better to give than to receive. Here are five biblical ways to find happiness through our interactions with others!
1. Find Happiness in How We Treat Each Other
“This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you.” - John 15:12 (Read More)
We all have the power to treat one another with kindness, love, and acceptance, the way that Jesus treats us. When someone chooses to treat us well, it reminds us that we have value and worth. Be the reason that someone else remembers that truth today.
2. Find Happiness in What You Give to Others
"If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly." - Romans 12:8 (Read More)
God equipped each one of us with unique talents, resources, and abilities. Use yours to give back in a way that brings joy to the life of someone else. Whether it’s giving your time, money, or using your gifts and talents, don’t waste what you’ve been given!
3. Find Happiness in How You Show Up for Those in Need
“Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need your help." - Isaiah 58:7 (Read More)
"In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive." - Acts 20:35 (Read More)
We’ve all been blessed with something—whether it’s a roof over our heads, a family, or just enough food for the week. Unfortunately, not everyone has the blessings that we do. But you can share what you’ve been given and create joy at the same time when you commit to showing up for people in need.
4. Find Happiness in How You Listen to Others
"My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry" - James 1:19 (Read More)
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." - Ephesians 4:29 (Read More)
When you care for someone, you make space for them. That means really taking the time to listen to them when they speak, and hear their hopes, fears, dreams, and needs. Be intentional about really listening to others, and creating a safe and caring space for them.
5. Find Happiness in How You Talk to Others
"So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing." - 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (Read More)
Our words are powerful, whether we mean them to be or not. Don’t just watch what you say to others—use your words to create real change. Build one another up with positivity, and call out the good that you see in others. You may be surprised how big of an impact it can make on their lives, and on yours.
How are you creating happiness today? Hear more in our series How Happiness Happens, and the message Giving with Our Words.