Are optimists more happy, in general? Are followers of Jesus more happy, in general? Where's joy fit into the whole picture? I've been accused of being an optimist as though it's equivalent to being a dumb blonde (also an accusation that comes my way!) but I don't think optimism is airheaded denial of truth. In fact, when we consider the HOPE we have in Jesus, a LIFE with Him that has already begun, optimism is actually based on embracing the truth, not denying anything. (see Romans 5:1-5) Reality is that God has set eternity in our hearts. We are all spiritual beings, whether we choose to follow Jesus or choose to reject Him and the spiritual reality is much more real than the stuff we see around us that will someday disappear. So, following Jesus makes us reality-based optimists -- Truth gives us great hope!
Following that line of reasoning, I was intrigued by an article I recently read in Christianity Today by Sarah Pulliam.
"Evangelical Protestants are the happiest people in
A deeper reading of the article makes one wonder about her opening statement, but it's thought-provoking at least. Who are those who describe themselves as "evangelicals" as opposed to other options (like "born again") and why only include evangelical protestants?
What do they mean by "happy?"
Christians in the early church didn't think happiness was very holy. Indeed, "happy" seems fairly shallow, conjuring up images of a slap-happy grin permently plastered on a face with otherwise dull eyes. So, maybe "contentment" is a better term? Contentment based upon gratitude and a thankfulness for all that we have. But how does that balance with a longing for more, spiritually? Longing to be closer to God. Not becoming complacent.
After all of this random wrestling, I've decided that:
I want to be happy in my countenance based on an inner joy and contentment,
I want to delight in all that is beautiful that God brings my way,
all while I still long for a deeper walk with my Lord,
all while I hold loosely to all things temporal.
Thus concludeth some simple, but happy, thoughts in the drizzling rain of Paris.
3 comments:
I'm "happy" about your conclusion! I agree that our hope in the Truth rules over what we see in the natural. Hebrews calls it (that hope) an "anchor for the soul, firm and secure." From a different perspective, I was reading today about how our temperament or personality traits affect our style of prayer (as well as the way we relate to family, friends, and the world.) A few examples are optimistic vs. solemn, assertive vs. submissive, and subjective vs. objective. Caused me to think about God's design in diversity and how we all are needed. As each of us delights in all that is beautiful that God brings our way, it may look a little differently on each. As we grow in God and in contentment, hopefully we won't need to accuse anyone who is more optimistic of being in denial! We will celebrate their optimism and learn from it.
Wonderful thots, BB and Dava.
"someone sings a tune that our heart recognizes as filled with God"
and
"a 'yes' face"!!!
great stuff! I'm recognizing the tune and the face!
Moi aussi! (spelling?)
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