Happiness Level Three – Freedom For

The desire for freedom is one of the deepest yearnings of the human heart. From the point of view of the lower levels of happiness, freedom tends to mean keeping all my options open, not being constrained by any long-term commitments – a kind of freedom from, in which the world is my oyster.

The Level Three view of freedom is much different. Freedom means pursuing goals that are truly worthy of me. Level Three freedom is ‘freedom for’, the ability to choose those pursuits which are truly noble and which bring a deep and long-term happiness far superior to the fleeting happiness that attends the freedom for approach.

And let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we do not lose heart. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

PRAYER:  Lord I thank you for the opportunities you have given me to dedicate myself to causes and people that enable me to make an optimally positive contribution to the good of others and the kingdom of God.

APPLICATION:  I take a moment to think about, and savor, the deeper feelings of happiness, satisfaction and gratitude for one or two of the long-term commitments I have made, and in which I will persevere.