Deeper Life #173

Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.

—Hebrews 12:14

THE CHRISTIAN LIFE IS A holy life. Do not substitute the word happy; happiness is a consequence of holiness.

So many good people are caught up in what we may call “the gospel of temperament.” In other words, they subscribe to the belief that they must be happy and bright. But these moods are consequences, and not causes, of the Christian’s relationship with God.

Our Lord insists that we keep our eyes fixed on “the strait gate and the narrow way” which, in essence, is pure love and holy living in every area of our lives. Happiness is not to be our primary aim. Our aim is to please the Lord Jesus Christ, to serve Him in the beauty of holiness, in love, and in humility. Is this your aim?

Prayer Thought: Holiness and happiness come from You, O Lord. Without a holy life, my happiness is not fully possible.

SUGGESTED READING: Romans 6:15–23