True Happiness

Years ago I had no idea how strongly God felt about giving to others. Before that, I lived a selfish, me-first life. I struggled and strived constantly to find happiness for myself, but I always found myself worn-down, stressed-out, and definitely unhappy.

However, God taught me a thing or two about true happiness. Once I figured out that happiness is a by-product of doing something good for other people, I began to adopt a lifestyle where I intentionally look for ways to help people, every day.

The Bible says in Acts 20:35, In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ (NIV).

That’s amazing. Giving brings more happiness than receiving? On the surface, that doesn’t make much sense. We live in a world and a culture that’s obsessed with receiving. So many times, we look at people who have a lot of stuff and think, ‘They must be truly happy.’

But true happiness comes from a lifestyle of giving to others. Now, that doesn’t mean you have to give away millions. All God asks is that you give what you have.

I don’t ever want to be the kind of person who just says, “Well, I’m doing enough. I’m satisfied.” In reality, that will never bring satisfaction. No, I want to help as many people as I possibly can.

Today, find someone you can give to. No matter how big or small your gift, whether it’s money, time, or encouragement, just give what you have. Experience the true happiness that comes from giving.