“Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow” James 1:17 NLT.

Happiness results spontaneously when there is a cause for it. Viktor Frankl asserts that it is the side effect of attaining a goal. When we participate in meaningful activities or relationships, it just happens. We don’t have to wish for it or force it. We’re happy when there’s a reason to be.

What about the rest of the time? Especially the hard times. Happiness isn’t possible when life is miserable; but we don’t need to be depressed. During these times we must practice contentment. Many successful people suggest keeping a Gratitude Journal on a daily basis. This forces us to become alert to the blessings in our lives. It’s easy to notice the things that go wrong. We have to be intentional about noticing the small and simple things that are good in our lives.

And from whom do these blessings come? Our loving Heavenly Father whose eyes are upon us all the time, even in the dark valleys of life. Think about how you feel when your kids are grateful for the 202 toys you’ve given them instead of begging for yet another one. When we develop grateful hearts, we can claim contentment even in the unhappy times.

Try this exercise: this week don’t ask God for anything (for yourself anyway). Begin every prayer with “Thank you for…” and see if you don’t experience an increase in your feelings of well being.