I have heard so many parents tell me lately “I just want my kids to be happy”. Unfortunately, this has now crossed thresholds in our Christian homes that places a value on happiness over all else – even sin. There have been a number of instances where an adult, married child has decided to leave their spouse and they end up committing adultery and beginning a new relationship with someone new. Too often, Christian parents respond today by proclaiming: “I just want my child to be happy”.
I want and pray for more than just happiness for my Children. My boys are both young adults now and I desire that they have a close relationship with Christ. I pray that they are always in the midst of God’s Will. I expect them to always place integrity and character at a high level. I pray that they put others needs and comforts above themselves.
When Jesus had finished washing the Disciples feet He proclaimed to His hearers that if they would follow His example “happy are ye if ye do them” (John 13:17). So, ironically, in God’s system – when you don’t seek happiness but serve others – you end up with happiness. Searching after our own happiness shows our selfishness and pride of life.
So I am not looking for my boys to “just be happy”. I am looking for them to be the men that God wants them to be – and in doing that they will indeed find happiness.
