As the Christmas season approaches, the words "happiness
and joy" are more frequently being inserted into commercials, advertising
and the songs of the holiday. That warm and cozy feeling washes over us as we
dream of being happy and joyful; but is there a difference between the two?
Happiness: a state of well-being and contentment, a
pleasurable or satisfying experience.
Joy: the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good
fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires, a source or cause of
delight.
The definitions at
first glance seem so similar, but in reality, the meanings are huge! There are
many things that can bring both happiness and joy, but one is fleeting and the
other lasting. The late pastor and president of the Southern Baptist
Convention, Adrian Rogers once said:
"Happiness is temporary, but joy is eternal. Happiness
depends upon outward experiences, but joy comes from within." - Adrian
Rogers
Happiness is an emotion caused by outside influences or
things that 'happen to' you, such as winning the lottery or getting a raise.
Joy is an emotion caused by something that 'happens in' you, like a profound
spiritual transformation or the birth of a child. Joy, unlike happiness is
internal and eternal. Joy does not depend on outward experiences, so no outside
source can take it away; it is a state of being.
Which do you want? Although I wish happy things for you, I
pray that you will be filled with endless joy! You deserve joy; a feeling that
transcends anything that is personally going on in your current life. Find and focus on what
brings you joy and pursue it vigorously.
Accept things that make you happy, but pursue joy. God
believes in you and so do I. Joy is your inherent right. Don't spend your life
chasing things and people that will make you happy for but a moment. Make joy a
priority and your life will be full. Start by seeking the spiritual, emotional,
mental and not merely the physical.
Be strong, be blessed :)
God Bless,
http://waitonboaz.com
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