What Is Needed to Be Really Happy?

Over 100,000 persons were asked, “What would make you happy?” From the variety of answers, two needs stood out. One “attitude that is important for adult happiness is a certainty that life has meaning and direction” and that one is ‘progressing toward lifetime goals,’ stated Psychology Today, the source of one poll. While Redbook magazine concluded from its poll: “Women of all ages most highly prize being at peace with themselves . . . to reach inner harmony.”

How true! If your life is not accomplishing anything really meaningful or you cannot live with yourself because of overwhelming guilt and weaknesses, you probably yearn for a better life. But how do we put our lives together so they are happy? A certain decision or course of action may seem to lead to a better life, but time and experience often prove it to be disappointing.

However, millions worldwide have found notable happiness by following the “world’s best seller”​—the Bible. Could this really be how our lives can be guided to lasting happiness?

“But what about the hundreds of millions who have the Bible and whose lives are no better than mine?” many respond. Having the finest mountain guide in the world is valueless if the climbers refuse to follow him. So with the Bible, for it says: “If you know these things, happy you are if you do them.”​—John 13:17.

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TO BE HAPPY

● You need to know that your life is accomplishing something meaningful and that you have worthwhile goals

● You need inner harmony, having self-esteem and control over your emotions ​—Based on surveys involving over 100,000 persons