Each of us makes a choice – and we make that choice every day! It is a decision to choose happiness, or a decision to choose unhappiness. It really does depend upon us (despite our belief that others make us happy or unhappy). Solomon suggests five areas where one should find “happiness” and a “cheerful heart.”

First, one should be happy with his food and drink (v. 7). There are so many in the world that are dying of thirst and starvation. For those of us who have our “daily bread” there should be an attitude of gratitude.

Second, one should be happy with his clothes (v. 8a). If one can pick clothes that are comfortable (“white”), he should be happy with that. Again there are many in the world that lack the kind of clothing needed for the changes in the weather. If one has adequate clothing, there should be a sense of joy.

Third, one should be happy if he has medicine (v. 8b). Solomon mentions the benefits of “oil.” Frequently oil was used for medicinal purposes, as well as an ointment to aid dry skin. Not all have either the availability of oil or the resources to purchase it.

Fourth, one should be happy with his mate (v. 9). When one finds a wife he has found “a good thing” (Prov. 18:22). There are so many who are in unhappy marriages. Why are they unhappy? Usually because one or both have failed to invest in the marriage, trying to make it the best marriage possible. Also there are those who have failed to develop contentment with one’s mate. If the husband is always thinking of other women, or the wife is thinking of other men, a lack of contentment will exist and will grow as a cancer in that marriage.

Fifth, one should be happy with his job (v. 10). There are so many who continually grip and complain about their jobs. Yet there are others who have the same job and are happy with that job. So what is the difference? They have a determination to maintain a positive attitude about that job. Frequently people become discontent and either are miserable in the job or are frequently ‘job hopping.’ The grass isn’t always greener on the other side, as so many foolishly find out – but too late.

Happiness is in your grasp. Choose to seize it!

–Denny Petrillo