Happy or Holy

"But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" - 1 Peter 2:9

I happened to see a post on Facebook that was a challenge to the Christian readers to consider the question - "Does God want us to be happy or holy?" I suppose a follow-on question might be - "Why can't we be both?"

The idea of being "holy" is to be consecrated or set apart, dedicated or devoted to serving God. Separate from the world and devotion to the things of the world. That possibility happens the moment that we are saved by faith. Another question might be - "What is the source of our joy or happiness?" Position or possession. Have you ever heard someone ask in frustration, "What does it take to make them happy?" There is a quote from John D. Rockefeller when he was asked how much money he needed. The answer, "Just a little bit more." The pursuit for the things of this world to make us happy is never ending. The desire is insatiable. People with a lot of many very often have lives that are relational disasters. 

"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world." - 1 John 2:15-16

If you should find yourself in pursuit of "more" in your quest to be happy, you might very well have to deny your faith - obedience to the Word - your new nature - to acquire that which you desire. The Bible is a mirror, if you will. It reflects the nature of God and the nature of man. It is also about transformation - mankind cannot become like Christ on our own - but we need God's intervention. 

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." - Romans 12:2

"For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren." - Romans 8:29

The truth about happiness is that only way to be truly happy is to be holy. 

Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it – Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory. 

By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone