New Reminders: In Pursuit

We have all heard the words, in our American Declaration of Independence, that tell us that everyone in this country is entitled to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”  Those of us who went to church and Sunday school as children, were also taught to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.  We were also encouraged to think big and pursue our dreams.

The problem for most of us, is that we have to spend so much time and energy pursuing money for everything we think we need to have in order to enjoy life, that for many years, the pursuit itself becomes our life.  We end up having to spend so much time at work that there is little or no time to spend with family, friends or at our favorite pass times.  We all tend to think that if only we had more time, or more money, we would have a happier life.  But life does not always turn out as we might have hoped or imagined it should or would.

The famous illustrator, Norman Rockwell, painted some of the most recognized art of the 20th century.  His idyllic scenes portrayed the best of the American spirit and produced smiles all across the country as millions enjoyed his Saturday Evening Post covers.  Ironically, Rockwell and his wife both suffered from chronic depression.  In 1953, they moved to Stockbridge, Massachusetts.  The humble house they lived in is now a museum of Rockwell’s work.  The couple moved there for the sole purpose of being near the psychiatric hospital where famed psychoanalyst Erik Erikson worked.  The Rockwell couple’s therapy bills were so large that he had to work an extra job for Kellogg’s Corn Flakes magazine, to produce visuals for their ads in order to be able to pay the bills.  Rockwell’s biographer, Deborah Solomon, wrote, “He was painting what he longed for.”  Studies show that when people push themselves to engage in up-beat behaviors, acting happy actually fosters an improved sense of well-being.   Apparently, Rockwell painted what he wished for, and it helped his outlook on life. 

Happiness is a fleeting feeling, whereas contentment is a more long-term way of life.  Happiness is an emotion, but contentment is an attitude––a state of mind.  Happiness is a reaction, whereas contentment is a lasting calmness that stays with you.  According to the Bible, the only true source of lasting joy and contentment, is Jesus.

The secret to contentment isn't just being satisfied, it's a relationship with God.  And the measure to which we have that level of confidence in God, is the measure to which we can cope with any circumstance.  Paul had learned this through his many trials in his ministry experiences.  We too can maintain an attitude of contentment and expect moments of great joy and happiness if we trust God to give us the strength, to handle any circumstance we night face. 

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.