New Reminders: Joy vs. Happiness
by Ardith Hoff
Joy and happiness are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences in the way each is experienced. It may seem like splitting hairs, because some of the same things that make us joyful also make us happy. The difference is, in the source of the pleasurable feelings. As far as the Bible is concerned, happiness is something we can hope for and even pursue, but it is just a temporary feeling like fear or sadness that come and go. That is why the founders wrote that “the pursuit of happiness” is guaranteed in the United States Constitution, but not necessarily the lasting retainment of it.
Happiness is fleeting! We speak of the happiest day of our lives, but we know that we are not always going to be happy. There are too many disappointments, losses and life altering experiences that can disrupt our happiness. There are always going to be illnesses and accidents, difficult interactions with people and disastrous events beyond our control, which will render us unhappy.
We don’t have to have a perfect life to experience great happiness. We can experience happiness, even in the midst of sorrow. When someone tells a particularly touching or humorous story at a funeral, even the saddest mourners will cherish the happy memory. Earthly possessions, satisfying accomplishments, and the people who love us are all blessings that help us feel happy. However, according to the Bible, the only true source of lasting joy, is Jesus.
Joy comes from the assurance of eternal life in heaven as a result of Jesus the Christ’s death on the cross and the promise of salvation for all who believe. As it says in Hebrews12:2 “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Joy is a beautiful gift from God. It is a state of being, that is captured in the Psalmist’s declaration in Psalm 16:11 “You make known to me the path of life. You will fill me with peace and joy, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand.”
Just knowing that salvation is available to us brings us joy, even in the midst of pain and suffering. We are free to reject it, but at our own parrel. Who wouldn’t want eternal joy? Yet all too many of us are out to get all the little moments of happiness we think we can get from worldly pleasures and keep putting off thinking about what comes after all the happy moments have passed.
Psalm 32:11 “Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!” It is up to us!