American culture often emphasizes having, pursing, and feeling things that make us happy. But is constantly seeking happiness fulfilling? Is it possible that we may be missing out on joy in our attempt to gain happiness?
While happiness and joy may appear similar on the surface, joy comes with more of a moral and spiritual element. So as parents raise their kids, they should consider if they want their kids seek happiness or something a little more fulfilling.
How Seeking Holiness Can Lead to Happiness and Joy
If parents are asked about their greatest desire for their kids, they often express the desire for their kids to find happiness. While happiness is certainly a positive thing, should achieving happiness be the main purpose in our lives? Aren’t there are plenty of indulgent, selfish, hateful, and morally corrupt people who would consider themselves happy? Have they fulfilled their purpose? While these people may be able to experience happiness, they are missing out on joy. Joy comes from communing with God and God’s holy nature.
Feeling happy depends on our circumstances, but experiencing joy goes beyond what is happening around us. Joy speaks to us spiritually, while being happy appeals more to our flesh. This doesn’t mean being happy is wrong. Happiness is certainly a blessing. But we can have our priorities mixed up if we seek happiness before we seek holiness. I recommend that parents encourage their kids to seek holiness and the joy that extends from it. In this, your kids may experience more happiness than ever before.
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