Happiness in the Christian Life

Some traditions and common sayings in Christian circles may lead people to believe that Christianity is only about self-denial. The Bible mentions this, but the Bible has a specific meanings for it, and when done in the right way (following the true meaning of it and with wisdom), it leads to happiness.

Christianity is about seeking your happiness and the happiness of others in God. The self-denial of Christianity promotes the long-term happiness of ourselves.

Often people focus too much on the denial, of not doing things, like denying themselves pleasure instead of positively doing things for others. When we help and love others we find we are much happier than if we were always alone.

When we talk about the Christian life, it's important to not forget the freeing aspect of Christ's work for us and how God's commands are really good and freeing in a sense. Sin is what tries to convince us that there is a better way than God's commands when truly there's not.

Here are five posts related to this topic:

• Our True Selves: "Often our feeling about Christianity from the outside or inside is that it may destroy our personality. ... The reality is that we find our true selves when we accept God. ..."
  
  
• Suffering as Non-Ideal: "Various Christian groups have promoted suffering as a Christian virtue. While the bible does suggest that suffering produces virtue, the bible does not promote a life of suffering. ..."
  
  
• The Word "Sacrifice" Should Be Used More Carefully
  
  
• Pleasure Is Not the Enemy
  
  
• Reflections on Being "Selfless"

Reflections on Being "Selfless"

By Co-Contributor
Michelle Dowell

The frequency and passion that the word "selfless," as in a"selfless act," is used may cause a person to think the best acts and best life are ones that never think about the value or care of self.

It may cause a person to serve to the extent that is unhealthy overall. Serving to the extent of not taking care of one's self over a long period of time is not good. By taking care of oneself, I mean taking times to rest, eat enough, and recreation that refreshes.

It's true that the best acts are not solely focused on one's self. But it doesn't mean that the self is denied completely. It's not an either/or situation, but a both/and. It's more thinking about both--more than just self.

An example is shared enjoyment at times because you brought someone happiness through work even though it was tiring. Or knowing you have value because of God's part of giving that value to created beings and, especially to those who have access to him in Christ, and God's guidance and care of their everyday lives.