Finding Happiness in Christ (Series 3)Sample

Thanksgiving

O Lord, I know the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his steps. (Jeremiah 10:23)

John Wesley was about 21 years old when he studied at the University of Oxford. He came from a Christian family and was blessed by God with a handsome face and sharp mind. However, at that time, John was an arrogant and sarcastic young man. But something happened one night that changed Wesley's heart. While conversing with a porter, John realized that the man only had one coat and lived in such poverty that he didn't even have a bed. But the man was filled with happiness and thanksgiving to God. Wesley, who was still immature at the time, thoughtlessly joked about the man's misfortune. "And what else can you thank God for?" he asked sarcastically. The porter smiled and gently answered John with joy, "I thank God that He has given me life, a heart to love Him, and above all, a desire to serve Him!" Touched, Wesley admitted that this man knew what gratitude meant.

Reflection: One thing that cannot be denied as human beings is that all of us are full of limitations. When we collide with our limitations and conditions that can't bring us to what our souls need, and when we find it difficult to rejoice, ask for that joy from God! Only He can give it.

When I believe that ultimate happiness is found only in God, I will close the distractions and open His Word. 

(Randy Alcorn)