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√ A FALSE Happiness Theology.

• I feel happy so it MUST BE OK.

(Proverbs 14:12 NIV) There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.

(Proverbs 14:12 MSG) There is way of life that looks harmless enough: look again — it leads strait to hell.

• I don’t feel happy so I need to GET OUT.

(1 Peter 4:12-13 MSG) ‘Friends, when life gets really difficult, don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn’t on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.

• I’m not happy therefor it isGOD’S FAULT.

• I know what will MAKE ME HAPPY.

(2 Timothy 4:3-5 MSG) ‘You’re going to find that there will be times when people will have no stomach for solid teaching, but will fill up on spiritual junk food—catchy opinions that tickle their fancy. They’ll turn their backs on truth and chase mirages. But you —keep your eye on what you’re doing; accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive; do a thorough job as God’s servant.

1. It is something that moves us AWAY FROM HIM. (SIN)

(1 Peter 1:15 NLT) But now you must be holy in everything you do,just as God who chose you is holy.

(Hebrews 10:10, 14 NLT) For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time.. . .. For by that one offering he forever made perfect those who are being made holy.

2. When it is driven byCIRCUMSTANCES.

(Philippians 4:12-13 NLT) I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with afullstomach orempty, withplentyorlittle. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

√ God wants more than HAPPY, He wants us BLESSED.

(Matthew 5:3-12 NLT) “God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth. God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied. God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. “God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.