Recently, I saw a television ad for a restaurant chain that made a
dramatic claim. At those restaurants, the ad said you could “Help Yourself to
Happiness.” Wouldn’t it be nice if a helping of potatoes or meat or pasta or
dessert would be all that was needed to provide happiness? Unfortunately, no
restaurant can fulfill that promise.
Happiness is an elusive thing—as we can see in almost every area of
life. Our pursuit of happiness may involve food or a host of other things, but,
in the end, happiness continues to escape our grasp.
Why? In large measure it’s because the things we tend to pursue do not
touch the deepest needs of our hearts. Our pursuits may provide moments of
enjoyment, distraction, or pleasure, but the cry of our hearts goes unheard—the
cry for help and hope. That is why the psalmist points us to a better way when
he says, “Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in
the Lord his God” (Ps. 146:5).
Help yourself? Yes—if we are seeking the happiness found in the Lord. It
is only when we entrust ourselves to God and His care that we can find the
happiness we seek. Our hope and help are found only in trusting Him.
The one who puts God first will have happiness that lasts. (RBC)
