Why is it so hard to learn that prosperity doesn't bring happiness?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: We’ve all heard that prosperity brings happiness, but it seems like our nation is getting a needed lesson in the fact that prosperity isn’t the key to peace and contentment, but rather having a thankful heart. Why is this so hard for us to learn? – T.H.
A: When comfort, ease, and pleasure are exalted, progress is always set back.
Having peace and purpose are results of having a personal relationship with God. The whole human race is consumed with a search for happiness and peace; for the human conscience can be relentless. The peace mankind seeks is not merely a nondescript, so-called peace of mind that is blind to reality or comes and goes according to our moods or circumstances. The peace every person seeks is one that will free them from the anxiety and frustrations of life’s distracting conflicts and problems. It is a peace of soul that permeates one’s entire being, a peace that operates through the trials and burdens of life.
People also search for purpose in life. Man is confused and perplexed, wondering where he came from, why he is here, and where he is going. He wants to know if there is truth in this universe. The philosopher declares that man has no God-given purpose and is left to make up his own purpose and meaning in life, if he can. But down inside we yearn for something more certain.
Humans also seek for a personal relationship with their Creator, the Lord God, but many do not listen to the voice of God to hear Him calling their lost and weary soul back to Him. Man yearns to know that he is not alone in this universe, that there is a Higher Power guiding his journey.
The Bible shouts out in hope to mankind saying, “Know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:19, NKJV).
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2024 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2024 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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