Inward happiness... = Joy of the Lord

There is a difference being happy or sad. And it is so related to being satisfied in the Lord - if you see my previous blog entry -

It doesn't matter if you are rich or poor, good looking or not good looking.

It's a matter of courage and acceptance. Facing up to reality. Accepting God's creation - accepting yourself for all your weaknesses and faults and not being too hard on one's self.

It's a matter of facing reality and striving to make best of what you can in your life - and to have HOPE in the Lord.

And it shines out.

Today, i awoke feeling bright and cheery - feeling like nothing in the world can take away this joy - this knowledge that i've found within me - the assurance of God being close by.

And I am happy.

It's a kind of breakthrough.

And i think, if we have not broken through the barrier of misery and self-pity, this is kinda like sinning to God too because we are saying ultimately - God you cannot help me - or.. God i don't want to be helped - ...

So i will be happy. I must make it a point to be happy.

Be happy in the things of the Lord.

True happiness. what is it?

I think it is a state of peace - calm - satisfaction - assurance - clear goals ahead that are not self-serving - a sense that life is beautiful - not thinking of oneself - love.