Being happy

(1) For most people, feeling happy is a life goal.

(2) We all ask this question at some point in our lives. Some people think they can find happiness in material possessions. (3) But after some time, they feel empty again. Why? Because possessions and luxury do not last forever. Some people believe that happiness is having a good time. Unfortunately, when the good moment passes, they feel unhappy, sad or bored. And the cycle begins again: feeling happy is related to moments, to specific circumstances in a person’s life, but when something bad happens, this feeling disappears.

(4) We can find true happiness only in God. In the Bible there are a lot of verses that tell us that God wants us to be happy. As our Creator, God knows exactly what we need to have a happy life. He knows that by his side, we can find joy in life, (5) But more importantly, he wants his children to live their lives in a way that will prepare them to enjoy eternity with him. Feeling happy and being happy are two different things. Remember: true happiness comes from God, our Lord and Creator. (6) a. “What do we need to be happy?” b. They buy the latest smar tphone or the most expensive clothes. c. even when bad things occur. d. What is the source of true happiness, then? e. Give praise to him and take pleasure in all his blessings. f. Everybody wants to be happy. a. Having the latest phone. b. Praying. c. Being good at something. d. Thinking about Heaven. e. Winning prizes or awards. f. Helping people in need. g. Telling people about Jesus. h. Going on holidays once a year.

2. Insert these missing sentences or clauses in the text above. Write a-f in the correct gaps.

3. Look at the list of things that can make a person happy. Write “H” (human happiness) or “G” (Godly happiness).

4. Pair work. Compare your answers to those of a partner. Comment on your choices.