Maybe we've read the phrase "Don't forget to be happy" which is attached to the social media display image of our relatives. We often hear this sentence from our friends when we are facing a struggle. This sentence reminds us to be happy even though I myself do not understand what the measure of happiness is meant in that sentence.

We often judge other people's happiness according to our own happiness. Can other people be happy if today they eat rice with a side dish of tempeh? Or can other people be happy when they are sick? Etc. The measure of happiness that we have is more inclined to the measure of worldly happiness, not happiness according to God's word.

God's Word shows the way to happiness. Being grateful in everything, that's one of the things that opens the door to happiness. Rich or poor, healthy or sick, whoever we are, there is no need to seek happiness. True happiness begins with gratitude for whatever we have in all situations and conditions. We can be grateful in all things and circumstances when we realize that our lives are in God's control and presence (1 Thess. 5:9-10).

Such gratitude will lead to happiness. Whatever is owned, whatever is received, everything is appreciated as a form of God's mercy. If God controls and accompanies our lives, what are our reasons for not being happy?

May Gd strengthen us all, amen.