Happiness

“no one is perfectly content to be the richest, most beautiful, or fastest either. Why? Because they know their time will soon be up” - Challies

“The study, a joint project of Harvard and Baylor universities, Gallup and the Center for Open Science, aims to uncover what influences ‘human flourishing,’ which is defined by measures of happiness, character and virtue and social relationships, among other values.” - The Baptist Paper

“our hearts overflow with thanks that we who deserve nothing but judgment, death, and Hell are given deliverance, grace, and eternal life. Day after day, God favors us not only with leniency but also with beauties, delights, and privileges we have no right to expect.” - Randy Alcorn

“modern happiness studies demonstrate that wealth, success, power, and popularity are not predictors of happiness. People who choose gratitude and engage in respectful, others-centered relationships are happier than those who are self-focused and driven by feelings of entitlement.” - Randy Alcorn

“47% “very” satisfied with their personal lives; one point shy of record low… 78% very or somewhat satisfied; down five points since last year” - Gallup

“If the gospel we preach isn’t about happiness, then it contradicts God’s words in Isaiah 52:7. The gospel offers an exchange of misery-generating sin for happiness-giving righteousness provided by Jesus Himself.” - Randy Alcorn

“Many Christians spiritualize the word joy, contrasting it with happiness and portraying it as independent of emotion or pleasure. Some claim that joy is a fruit of the Spirit and therefore not an emotion.” - Randy Alcorn

“Repeatedly, Solomon encourages us first to find and take joy in these ordinary aspects of life. And second, he urges us to recognize that these are good gifts from God” - Ligonier

“Ignatius of Antioch…wrote a letter beginning with these words: ‘To the Church which is at Ephesus … deservedly most happy… . Abundant happiness through Jesus Christ, and His undefiled joy.’” - Randy Alcorn

Also in the report: “Benevolence to others has risen roughly 25% since the pandemic began” - Axios