Its funny how the mind works because as I looked at this picture, all I could think about was the old Al Jolson song "sitting on top of the world". OK, I know that dates me, but one of the best gifts my grandmother gave me was a collection of his records. I remember how I used to play them on an old Victrola wind up record player. Somehow, she always seemed nearby when I played them. Questions: What makes you happy; what makes you feel like the bear in the picture? As usual, I am drawn to the following verses...
WEB: Matthew Chapter 5
[1] Seeing the multitudes, he went up onto the mountain. When he had sat down, his disciples came to him. [2] He opened his mouth and taught them, saying,
[3] "“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.
[4] Blessed are those who mourn,
for they shall be comforted.
[5] Blessed are the gentle,
for they shall inherit the earth.
[6] Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness,
for they shall be filled.
[7] Blessed are the merciful,
for they shall obtain mercy.
[8] Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they shall see God.
[9] Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called children of God.
[10] Blessed are those who have been persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.
[11] “Blessed are you when people reproach you, persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, for my sake. [12] Rejoice, and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Perhaps this is not the first thing you think of, but it works for me!!! Maybe understanding the word blessed will help. I like the this was of translating it: OH, the blessed state of the man (with God)... that... Face it, sometimes your best friends will let you down, your spouse will yell at you, your family will laugh at you and your kids will do something that will absolutely drive you up the wall. God doesn't do that; HE is always there, never, ever acts unpredictably and always loves you. HE just keeps on loving you, even when you do wrong and always forgives... always. There really is nothing in this world you can depend on BUT God and if that doesn't make you happy, nothing will!!!