Happiness is an Option (10/17/05)

Have you ever wondered why the Bible tells us specifically "be of good cheer," rather than seek happiness. It is because happiness, joy, good cheer, etc. are not things to be found, but rather a choice to be chosen. So often in this life we take our countenance as the result of circumstance, when in actuality, it is our countenance that should be changing our circumstances. To rely on our circumstance is really a lack of faith. The word teaches us to "walk by faith, not by sight," for "without faith, it is impossible to please God." Yet, we too often choose to pay attention to the things that the eyes can see, and allow those things to take rule over us, instead of noting the things that God has promised us, despite the appearance of that which is seen.

I'm here to tell you today though, that you don't have to be unhappy anymore. I urge you to rejoice for knowledge and truth as only can be found in the word of God. The Bible tells us to be of good cheer! It is a choice that we make. We must decide that we are worth it to be happy, and stand strong against all forces that wish to take our joy away from us. Our happiness doesn't belong to our jobs, our creditors, our families, our neighbors, our government, nature, or any other external circumstance or influence. They didn't give it to us and surely they cannot take it away. Our joy was given to us by our Lord, and is ours to have and to keep, and it is time for us to stop sitting by in fear and submission to the world, and stand up for what is ours. So, I encourage you brethren, today, to stand up for yourself, smile, and be happy - not because of circumstance, but because you can, it is yours, and you deserve it.

By the grace of God,

Rev. Kelvin N. Broadus