(KWR 9/2010)
Happiness might be found in the material things of life – a job, a house and all the things that only money can buy.
But as these things are wrenched from us for any variety of circumstances something more important has taken a hold inside my heart.
I’ve heard sermon after sermon on happiness versus contentment yet until now I never truly understood the difference that they were really talking about.
Things may look bleak and dreary now – not cause for utter happiness.
Yet, in the midst of such dismal circumstances I find myself content in ways I never fully focused on before.
I feel it when I hear my little boy brighten up a room with a laughter that is so contagious.
I feel it when I snuggly tightly by my husband and we find a way to laugh despite the circumstances we are in.
I feel it when my friends and family call just to say I love you and am there to help in any way that we might need.
I feel it when my dogs leap wildly upon me to greet me with their total love and complete trust in me.
I feel it when I am all alone and sitting quietly so I can feel the presence of my Lord as He holds tightly onto me – His child – to comfort me in times of stress and reminding me I’m never truly alone. He tells me just to trust in Him and all will work out but in His timing, not mine.
Happiness is fleeting and can’t get one through a crisis but with God’s love, contentment can do what happiness never could.
It can give me a peace to endure any circumstance that life can throw at me.
Naturally, I’d love to always be happy and content but if I had to chose but one, the choice for me is clear.
Contentment is enduring and happiness is so faltering.
May my actions stay true no matter what so that my life can be one of real contentment.