Most people believe that happiness comes from owning things like a car, a bike and a having the job they’ve always wanted. In which case happiness can also be considered a fleeting moment.
Lasting inner Joy on the other hand comes from within. According to the bible real joy is something that nobody can steal away and it’s not determined by outside factors. Nor is it a feeling that comes and goes. God wants us to be joyful and blessed.
- Be Content With What You Have
We can gain satisfaction and temporary pleasure out of owning a new car, buying a house or winning a race. Godly contentment comes from putting all our trust and confidence in God that he will provide all of our needs. It is the confidence of having done your very best and knowing that no matter what happens – God has this!
“Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.” I Timothy 6:6-7.
- Stop Comparing Yourself With Others
Nobody ever wins the comparison game because we can always find flaws in ourselves and in others. We can also find positive things about others and things that we might lack that they have or vice versa. God doesn’t determine our value by comparing us to others and neither should we. The only way to win the comparison game is to become a better version of you by learning from the bible.
““For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.” II Corinthians 10:12.
- Practice Generosity Regularly
God is a giver. He gives beyond measure. He gave us eternal life through Jesus Christ, His son who died for our sins and we didn’t deserve it or have to do a thing for it. He wants us to reflect that same Godly and unselfish character by giving freely and generously to others. Particularly to those in need.
“It is better to give than to receive” Acts 20:35.
- Don’t Worry & Trust God
The Aussie attitude of, “She’ll be right mate” comes to mind when writing this because there’s a level of trust in that statement that all things will work out. The same faith and trust in God needs to be applied to everyday situations. We need to believe, hope and pray during the tough times as well. Excessive worry can only lead to bad health. Pray and Trust God that all will work out according to His plan.
An old Doris Day song said it best, “Que Sera Sera – Whatever Will Be Will Be, the future’s not ours to see, Que sera sera.” But we know that we can pray about our circumstances as the future belongs to God and only He knows what lays ahead.
God knows it all. He is the Alpha and the Omega. The beginning and the end. He is the authority above all things and we can trust in Him.
“Remember the former things of old, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will do all My pleasure,’” (Isaiah 46:9–10)
Sandra Ciminelli
Cred. Dip.Couns.(Christian)
Sources
Where to Get Help
Talk to your doctor and see a mental health professional.
Visit CCAA to search for a Christian counsellor near you.
Visit ACA to search for a counsellor near you.
Studying at aifc
Have you thought about counselling? It’s a great opportunity to learn how you can extend God’s love and grace to the hurting out in the community.
For those who would like to enrol in aifc’s accredited Christian counselling courses we have two intakes per year for courses commencing around the following months:
–The beginning of each year in February
-Mid-Year courses commence in July
Enrolment Season – opens approximately 2 months prior our courses commencing. Enquire now and fill out the form with your details to receive course information by email. Enrol online here during our enrolment season.
Those living overseas can study aifc’s courses via our Distance Based Program.
The International Student Program, enables those with a student visa to Study On Campus in Sydney.
Note: A Master of Counselling course was introduced in 2018.
Contact aifc Monday to Friday from 9am – 5pm with your enquiries on 6242 5111 or toll free on 1300 721 397
Have you thought about becoming a qualified counsellor? It’s a great opportunity to learn how you can extend God's love and grace to the hurting out in the community.
For those who would like to enrol in aifc’s accredited Christian counselling courses we have two intakes per year for courses commencing around the following months:
Enrolment Season - opens approximately 2 months prior to our courses commencing. Enrol online here during our enrolment season.
We also offer two modes of study:
A Master of Counselling course was introduced in 2018.