Happiness…Are you pursuing it or have you caught it?

"The Constitution only gives people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself." ~ Benjamin Franklin

Happiness is that state of well-being or contentment.  In Philippians 4:1 (KJV) the Apostle Paul states, “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”  The Message translation rephrases it likes this: “Actually, I don't have a sense of needing anything personally. I've learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances.”  The key word hear in these verses is “learned”.  Paul learned that he had to “catch” happiness.  To catch something to to take possession of something suddenly or forcibly.  No matter what his circumstances, he had learned that he needed to take possession of happiness. 

Now I realize that sometimes circumstances make it seem near impossible to be content,  But, ALL things are possible with God.  He can give us the strength we need to content no matter what the circumstances.  When we are content, we are satisfied and pleased that all our needs are being met.  When you look at it that way, it can make a huge difference.    The Word of God says that we are more important to him than many sparrows.  And, He sees them when they fall and takes care of their needs.  He WILL take care of our needs. 

So, even though the circumstances may not be in your favor today, take a moment to look at the needs that have been met by Him.  If things look so bleak that you can’t think of anything, think of this…He has given you breath to breathe.  Remember, He will not forsake you…He WILL meet your needs.