Lies I Believe Part 1: God Just Wants Me to Be HappySample

BELIEVING TRUTH

Reflection:

Since the day in the garden when sin broke our relationship with God, broke our relationship with one another, and broke our relationship with the world God made, we have been destined to die. There is no escaping it. The all-consuming desire within humanity is to live, live happily, live satisfied, and live life to the fullest while we still can. Our sin and Satan’s lies twist those pursuits and focus on all the wrong things. What we think makes us happy is not always what’s best. Often the words “God just wants me to be happy” are used to justify doing things outside of God’s will. But because God loves us, He has set up limits and boundaries for us to live within.

God alone can satisfy our deepest desires. And He relentlessly pursues His people with faithful love, mercy, and grace. Through Jesus Christ, there is a way that leads to abundant life. A life full of purpose and meaning. A life full of love and gratitude. A life filled with the presence of God. The truth is that God’s way is best. It is hard, though! It requires us to surrender control, surrender comfort, surrender sin. Nowhere in the Bible does it promise that God’s way is easier. It tells us that the way is narrow and hard. But we’re promised it leads to abundance.

Ask Yourself:

To what degree are you willing to surrender control and comfort now to follow Jesus to an abundant life?

What truths do you find in today’s scripture passages?

Pause to Pray:

Jesus, help me to see the truth in your Word…

Take the Next Step:

What decision do you need to make this week? Instead of a pro/con list, consider what will be easier or harder. Then, ask God to help you choose what is best.