One way you can achieve happiness

DAILY BIBLE READING:

1 Chronicles 24:1–26:11 
Romans 4:1-12 
Psalm 13:1-6 
Proverbs 19:15-16

BIBLE VERSE(S) FOR TODAY:

Romans 4:7-8 (CSB) "Blessed are those whose lawless acts are forgiven and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the person the Lord will never charge with sin."

REFLECTIONS ON TODAY'S BIBLE VERSE(S):

As we consider our Verse for Today, there are two things that come to mind:

First, the word "blessed."

When we look at that word, we see a word that we rarely use during the course of our day. Sure, we may sparingly use the word "blessed" (one syllable) but we never, ever say it like we read it in the Bible (two syllables).

And this point is significant because when we look at a very positive word in the Bible that we don't use in our everyday, ordinary vocabulary, we essentially say that it is unachievable. It's a great concept but we could never experience it.

So, the first point I want to make is that the word "blessed" could better be translated "happy." It is the Greek word "makarios" and it speaks of a happy state of mind. The one who is "makarios" is happy because they know they are the recipient of some very wonderful things (or truths). So, they naturally have a smile on their face and a song in their heart.

Which leads us to the second point: What is the wonderful gift that the "blessed/happy/makarios" person receives?

Romans 4:7-8 (CSB) "Blessed are those whose lawless acts are forgiven and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the person the Lord will never charge with sin."

This verse speaks of someone who is happy because they are forgiven! Their sins are covered! There is no one left to condemn them because their sin account has been paid in full ... by Jesus.

Friend, when is the last time that you got a smile on your face and a song in your heart when you reflected on what Jesus did for you on that old rugged cross? If it's been awhile, do you think you should spend some time very soon in deep reflection on what Jesus did for you? 

If you do, you are simultaneously working toward a happy state of mind. It's a win/win. So, don't wait. Do it today?