Sunday Morning, April 13, 2025

13
Apr

Sunday Morning Reflection – April 13, 2025: The True Measure of Happiness in Christ

Matthew 5 | John 3 | Mark 8

In today’s reflection, we explore the deeper questions of happiness, purpose, and intentionality in our walk with Christ. True happiness in Christ isn’t about getting everything we want—it’s about understanding what we truly need and living with a heart of purpose, giving glory to God in everything we do.

Are You Happy?

It’s a simple question, but often, we seek happiness in places that cannot truly satisfy. Matthew 5 reminds us that not getting everything you want is actually a blessing. It can be a sign that God is helping us refocus on what really matters. Sometimes, the things we think we need can distract us from the true happiness that comes from knowing and following God.

The key question to ask is: Is your happiness more of a priority than God’s happiness? God’s happiness with our lives should be the ultimate goal, not fleeting satisfaction based on our circumstances. Are we more focused on our own desires than we are on seeking God’s will? The Bible calls us to prioritize His happiness, trusting that His plan is far better than what we can imagine for ourselves.

Consumed by Wants vs. Needs in God

Are you consumed by what you want, or by what you truly need in God? In a world where desire and consumerism drive much of our culture, it’s easy to get caught up in the things we think we need. But in reality, our spiritual needs—obedience, faith, love, and purpose—are far more important than the material things we chase after. When we focus on fulfilling our spiritual needs, we open ourselves to true joy and peace, not based on circumstances, but on a deep relationship with God.

A Heart to Give

Do you have a heart to give? The Bible encourages us to be generous, not just with our resources but also with our love, our time, and our service. When we live to give, we reflect the heart of Christ. Be glad! You serve a good God and you have a purpose! Don’t hide, don’t shrink back in fear. Stand firm in your faith, be bold in sharing the truth of Christ, and live with the intentionality of a heart that desires to give to others.

Facing Fear and Living with Boldness

Fear is a powerful force—it can make people do crazy things. But as Christians, we are called to stand up for Christ, even when fear tries to keep us silent. Are the people around you exposing you to sin, yet you are never exposing them to Christ? Fear may keep you from sharing the Gospel, but love and obedience to Christ should drive you to action.

Are you intentionally hiding Jesus? Are you choosing comfort over boldness? Or are you letting your light shine, showing others the love and truth of Christ in everything you do? We are called to live a life of intentionality, always thinking about how our actions, words, and choices can reflect Christ to the world.

Living with Purpose and Intentionality

What is your agenda in Christ? What are your goals in your walk with God? These aren’t questions to take lightly. In John 3, Jesus asks us to examine who we really are in Him. Are we truly living according to His will, or are we merely claiming to be something without truly living it out? Are you making the most of your time on earth to bring glory to God, to share His love, and to serve others?

Claiming to Be Christian

Mark 8 warns us about the danger of claiming to be a Christian without truly living it. It’s not enough to say you are saved—you must live in such a way that your faith is visible in every aspect of your life. Are you who you say you are in Christ? Are you walking the walk, not just talking the talk? True faith is demonstrated by the way we live, not just by the words we say.

Examine your life and your priorities. Are we living with intentionality for Christ? Are we bold in sharing His love with those around us? The life of a Christian isn’t one of passivity—it’s a life of action, purpose, and transformation. So, let’s make the decision today to live for God, to shine our light brightly, and to be intentional in everything we do.