Recently a grandson said. “But we’re happy Poppa and that’s what’s important” or “that’s what counts”, or words to that effect. I didn’t respond or comment at the time, because I really didn’t know what to say, but in reflection, I wish I had said, “No son, that’s not what’s important”.
Ecclesiastes teaches us that there is a time to be happy, but it’s not all the time. Chapter 3:1-8 says; “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to pluck that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; A time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; A time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; A time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; A time of war, and a time of peace.”
One time, or season, is often dependent upon another; except there be a time of plowing and planting, there can be no time of harvesting and eating. One season may be more fun than the other, but success and true happiness comes from learning to be content during both seasons.
I Timothy 5:8 say’s if any man provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel. Then, (6:6) say’s godliness with contentment is great gain. I think contentment is more to be sought than happiness, but will be elusive if there are unmet responsibilities.
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