I enjoy playing online Mahjong. The site I use provides a quote each time you open the app. Some promote the app, most are inspiring, but NOT the following one.

“The purpose of our lives is to be happy.” Anonymous

How many people’s lives has been destroyed because of that statement? How many people have encountered unhappiness on their quest to be happy, believing happiness is the ultimate condition? And if they achieve one of the following, then they will have a happy and purposeful life.

Money will make me happy.
This relationship will make me happy.
This promotion or that job will make me happy.
A new house. A victory.
Whatever is on the list that we believe will make us happy.

But the Bible teaches us two things. First, that God does want us to be happy; and second, happiness is not a goal we can achieve but rather it is a byproduct of our relationship with God.

God knows that the things of this world will only satisfy so much — not fully.

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21

The pursuits of this world can be destroyed or stolen. They are at risk.

Conversely, the Bible teaches that our happiness is completely wrapped up in our reliance, our obedience, our relationship with God.

"Happy are the people whose God is the Lord!” calm 144:15

"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4

"Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed [happy] is the one who trusts in the Lord.” Proverbs 16:20

"You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” Psalm 16:11

Most of us don’t realize the trap of those earthly pursuits until we have actually achieved one, and then realize the emptiness that accompanies it. Take for instance the following statements:

Tom Brady after winning his third Super Bowl and realizing the trophy did not provide a sense of fulfillment asked —“Is this what it’s all about?”

Michael Phelps would fall into severe depression after almost every Olympic Competition.

Even Christian Scottie Scheffler said that after winning an important tournament that it was “awesome . . . for about two minutes,” and then it was on to the next tournament.

Yes, we can aspire to achieve our goals, but let’s not make the mistake of believing those achievements will provide lasting happiness. Only God can do that.

"For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.” Psalm 107:9