Satisfied Americans

George Bernard Shaw is quoted as saying, “This is the true joy in life, the being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one: the being thoroughly worn out before you are thrown on the scrap heap, and being a force of nature instead of a feverish selfish little clod of ailments and grievances, complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy.”
A recent Gallup poll revealed that less than half of Americans are “very satisfied” with their personal lives—that is almost a record low. On the other hand, the poll also revealed that the most satisfied Americans are those who are religious, married, and upper income. While the poll indicates that the shaky economy has definitely had a direct bearing on people’s dissatisfaction as a whole, likewise, the addition of “religious” faithfulness for those who are more satisfied cannot be understated as a major factor in why they are more satisfied with life. But then, that is no real revelation to those who know Christ and especially those for whom Christ occupies centrality in their life.

Why is that? I believe it is because for the devoted believer they have discovered the secret of satisfaction and joy. That secret is found in the meaning that comes through a relationship with our creator who carefully designed us and then put us here for a purpose. Those without Christ look for meaning, happiness, and joy in the temporal external things while we believers find it in living our lives for something and someone bigger and eternal. Until you discover this you will live your life in an endless search for significance. Others have tried to find joy and satisfaction outside of Christ only to find emptiness and despair.

The fact is joy cannot be found...

In Unbelief -- Voltaire was an infidel of the most pronounced type. He wrote: "I wish I had never been born."

Not in Pleasure -- Lord Byron lived a life of pleasure if anyone did. He wrote: "The worm, the canker, and grief are mine alone."

Not in Money -- Jay Gould, the American multi-millionaire, had plenty of that. When dying, he said: "I suppose I am the most miserable man on earth."

Not in Position and Fame -- Lord Beaconsfield enjoyed more than his share of both. He wrote: "Youth is a mistake; manhood a struggle; old age a regret."

Not in Military Glory -- Alexander the Great conquered the known world in his day. Having done so, he sat down and wept in his tent, and then said, "There are no more worlds to conquer."

If you are searching for joy and satisfaction in life, there is only one place you’ll find it:
 
“For I will satisfy the weary soul, and every languishing soul I will replenish.”” (Jeremiah 31:25)

“Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.” (Psalm 90:14)

“For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.” (Psalm 107:9)
““Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you shall be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh.” (Luke 6:21)

There is nothing wrong with being a satisfied American. But it’s better to be a satisfied follower of Christ! Remember, God is always trying to take you someplace new.

I love being your Pastor!
For God’s Glory Alone,

Pastor Ray