# The Best of Prayer N Lunch – Our Pursuit of Happiness
*2008-08-24*

> Bill Young reflects on the many sources of unhappiness and offers a prayer that invites listeners to turn to Christ for true joy.

## Why We Feel Unhappy

There are countless reasons we find ourselves unhappy. I recently lost a coworker, Edna, who was a kind and generous person. The loss of a loved one—whether a friend, family member, or colleague—can leave a deep void. Other disappointments arise when our expectations go unmet: a child’s choices, a spouse’s actions, or a friend’s behavior. Often we mistake these external circumstances for true happiness, when real joy comes from a deeper source.

## A Prayer for Those Who Feel Lost

I’d like to share a prayer that reminds us to look to Christ, the source of authentic happiness.

I am the Light, and you do not see Me.
I am the Way, and you do not believe Me.
I am the Life, and you do not seek Me.
I am the Master, and you do not listen to Me.
I am the Leader, and you do not obey Me.
I am your God, and you do not pray to Me.
I am your Friend, and you do not love Me.

Lord Jesus, we have not loved or trusted You enough, and that is why we feel unhappy. Yet Your open arms invite us to take refuge in Your heart. Assure us of Your forgiveness. In the light of Your love we will find the strength to follow You—the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Grant us the grace to hear Your voice, to obey Your leadership, and to experience the joy of loving the God of love. Amen.

## Finding True Happiness

True happiness is not found in meeting our own expectations or in the fleeting comforts of this world. It is discovered in surrendering to Christ, trusting that He is the source of light, truth, and love. When we turn to Him, we receive the grace to love Him and to love others, and that love becomes the foundation of lasting joy.

*Authentic happiness comes when we stop blaming circumstances and turn our hearts toward Christ, the true source of light and love.*