Words To Live By: Week 5

They say it takes 17 muscles to smile (usually in comparison to the 43 it takes to frown). But still, 17 is more than you would expect.  It seems like smiling should qualify as an aerobic workout, yet it is one of the most effortless facial expressions we have as people.  So many times, a smile is uncontrollable, and it is most often a signal that we are happy.  

Now happiness is truly a gift from God.  It creates a feeling inside that, for brief moments, all is right.  It certainly feels like happiness gives us glimpses on what Heaven will feel like in God's presence.

We also know that happiness has the potential to trigger endorphins in our bodies that amplify the feeling.  Those endorphins promote healthy wellbeing and physical relief from pain.  Happiness is truly amazing.

As an ice breaker, discuss with your core group a time when you experienced something truly happy.  It could be now and it could be a significant time from your past.  

This week, we will look at Proverbs on happiness.  But first, let’s start with a prayer.

Opening Prayer

Dear Lord, thank you for bringing this group together to study Your word.  Thank you for the many blessings you provide.  Please bless our conversations and lead us to meaningful understanding.  It is in Your name we pray, Amen.  


The Head

Those who despise their neighbors are sinners, but happy are those who are kind to the needy. - Proverbs 14:21 

A joyful heart brightens one’s face, but a troubled heart breaks the spirit. - Proverbs 15:13 

Better a little with fear of the Lord than a great treasure with turmoil.  Better a meal of greens with love than a plump calf with hate. - Proverbs 15:16-17 

Those with insight find prosperity; those who trust the Lord are blessed. - Proverbs 16:20 

1. Why do you think God values being kind to needy people? Talk about the word “needy”-explore the various meanings in terms of the people with whom we can share kindness. 

2. Proverbs 15:17 isn't really about food. (However vegetarians take heart.  God loves you as you are!). If greens are humble and calves are exclusive, might this verse really mean?

3. What kind of insight do you think leads to prosperity? Which do you prefer? Prosperity? Blessing? Why?

The Heart

In the New Testament gospels (which are the books of Mathew, Mark, Luke, and John) there aren't too many examples of the word "happiness".  But, there are many references to joy, which is a Christ filled form of happiness.  One story in particular recounts a time when Jesus undoubtedly experienced joy while teaching His disciples, and us, the value of love, joy, and completeness.  Found in the Gospel of John, Jesus is quoted as saying:

“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. - John 15:9-12 

1. It is interesting that Jesus links joy to completeness.  What does that say about the emotion that is joy?  Why do you think Jesus elevates that feeling? 
2. Which Bible verse, story brings you happiness? What does that happiness inspire you to do today? This week? Or this month?

Closing Prayer

Hey God, thank You for happiness.   Thank You for the many opportunities in this world that bring us joy.  But, You are our true source of joy. Thank you for your steadfast love.  Thank you for the grace you provide.  Please open our eyes to see opportunities to bring joy to others.  Please open our hearts to show compassion towards others in need.  Please guide us through this week and help us to stay steady on a righteous path.  In Your name we pray, Amen.  

The Hands

Many Christians these days are brought up to believe God doesn't want us to be happy.  It's kind of an Old Testament view that God is angry with us so much so that those Christians are in turn angry people themselves.  That view of God just isn't correct.

As something to read this week, there is a book titled simply "Happiness" by Randy Alcorn.  This book explores that angry notion and seeks to turn it around by showing that God is happy, and God wants us to be happy too.

Another good read is The Book of Joy by Desmond Tutu and Dalai Lama

Check out one of these if you get the chance!