What Makes For The Happiest Life?

I started this post two days before I learned that designer Kate Spade made the choice to end her life. While I couldn’t have picked her out in a group photo, her dining wares have been the center of attention on many an occasion; therefore, I will write this post in her memory.

Of course, when posited with the question for a happy life, the most common reply is M-O-N-E-Y.

But, if that was genuine truth, the extremely rich would not derail; and oftentimes end their lives, as a result of spending too much precious time on toxic living in an elusive attempt at happiness.

No, money cannot make this guarantee. Of course, it helps alleviate everyday burdens associated with food, clothes, and shelter; but, as proven time and time again, there are some things that money simply cannot, and never will be able to buy.

This is so important that God warns:

Take no thought for the morrow; of what you shall eat, drink or wear. (Matthew 6:25).

In fact, for those who dream of being lavishly wealthy; and even more so for those who actually are, extreme wealth should be frightening to the degree that God clearly states:

It is easier for a camel to get through the eye of a needle, than a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 19:24)

Thankfully, the inference makes known that there will be rich people welcomed into heaven’s gates when that day comes. However, I perceive this most likely will be the rare few who spend much of their time and money filling the needs of others.

For some strange reason, Brad Pitt comes to mind. After Hurricane Katrina, he spent time doing the grunge work of helping to rebuild the community. The fact that he made the physical and monetary effort to restore properties, is an example of not being so rich that you risk the joy of an eternal home in heaven.

I know nothing about Pitt’s spiritual faith; but, I do know that this is a good example of a rich man entering heaven. I know there are millions such individuals; but, as noted, he, for whatever reason, popped into my spirit as I wrote the above paragraph. SOURCE

But, to wrap this post up, I will share the key ingredient for a happy life.

In a nutshell, C-O-N-T-E-N-T-M-E-N-T.

Yes, finding contentment in whatever the situation, in whatever the circumstances, is the key to living a life where happiness is not determined by people and/or things.

To paraphrase Paul, he knew how to be abased; and to abound…as he could do all things through Christ who gave him strength.” (Philippians 4:12-13).

Not many people can say they can find contentment when the money and friends are acting funny.

Not many people can be content when they are hungry for a Spiritual Energy that cannot be fulfilled with the finest of foods. Many simply can’t imagine being in a happy place when they suffer lack for anything, even those things they don’t genuinely have need of.

No, the contentment Paul speaks of comes from a perspective no ordinary man can supply.

True contentment is found in seeking Jesus for the Strength to endure. This state of being is not natural. The carnal man has not learned this discipline.

For him it is about things, things, and yes, more things that leave him feeling empty.

Money can’t buy genuine love.

Money can’t buy peace.

Money cannot buy natural sleep.

Money cannot keep the person you love from leaving you.

Money cannot save you from growing old.

Money cannot keep you alive.

Happiness is an emotion.

Contentment is a discipline.

It is better to seek contentment than happiness.

Happiness is a lot like beauty; fleeting.

Happiness is an emotion which does not last; because the flesh always wants more.

Happiness can only be bought for a temporary time.

Contentment is not contingent on people or things. It comes from a place within, from an Entity that can’t be denied, or bought. He paid the price for every sin committed, past, present and future. (John 3:16)

Peace.