Recipe For Happiness

“Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him” (Psalms 2:12)The word, “blessed” in the Hebrew means, “happy.” Happy is a relative word, all depending on the circumstances (or happenings). In Webster’s it means, “enjoying well-being or contentment.” As long as your circumstances aren’t threatening or displeasing you can be happy. So this scripture is saying as long as you are putting your trust in God you will be happy.

The Hebrew word “trust” in this verse means, “to flee for protection.” We may need protection from want so we trust in Jesus (Jehovah-Jireh - our provider) to provide all our needs, spirit, soul or body (Ps.23:1). We may need protection from harm so we trust our Keeper for safety (Ps.9:9). If we need protection from worry and a troubled mind, we trust Jesus (Jehovah Shalom), He is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). If we need protection against making bad decisions we must trust Jesus, the omniscient, all wise God, to guide us (Prov.3:5-6). If we need protection from our inherent sins which have alienated us from God, then we must trust the restorative power of Jesus, our Savior, to bring us into an intimate relationship with the Father God (Col.1:21-22).

Are you happy? Psalm 2:12 is a simple recipe for happiness. Everything that is “simple” is not necessarily easy. To “trust” God is to choose to believe in and commit our thoughts and will to Him – that may be hard. We can be happy in any circumstance if we will believe God is in control and that He will bring about our good if we will give up our own will and fit into His purposes (Rom.8:28; Jer.29:11). We sometimes wonder if God knows what He is doing. We can be sure He does. Sometimes He has to permit us to be hurt deeply before we will turn to Him for help. When we trust Him, it is then that we can be used greatly to help someone else going through similar bad circumstances, and become truly “happy” in spite of the circumstances.

When we come to the full assurance that the God of the universe can be trusted anytime and for anything, then we can be happy in whatever is happening in our life. We can even thank Him in all things and for all things (I Thess.5:18; Jer.29:11). Notice that this recipe is for all. Not just for the super-spiritual (whoever that may be?), but whomever will “trust” in Jehovah God.

"Happiness Is"
Ira F. Stanphill

Happiness is to know the Savior, Living a life within His favor,
Having a change in my behavior, Happiness is the Lord.

Happiness is a new creation, Jesus in me in close relation,
Having a part in His salvation, Happiness is the Lord.

Real joy is mine, no matter if the tear drops start,
I’ve found the secret - It’s Jesus in my heart!

Happiness is to be forgiven, Living the life that’s worth the living,
Taking a trip that leads to heaven, Happiness is the Lord!