Happiness (Randy Alcorn)

Happiness

Christians are supposed to be happy. In fact, we are supposed to radiate joy, peace, and contentment that is so unmistakable and so attractive that others are naturally drawn to us because they want what we have. And yet, in today’s culture, the vast majority of Christians are perceived as angry, judgmental people who don’t seem to derive any joy from life whatsoever. So why aren’t we happy?

Unfortunately, many Christians are taught early on that God doesn’t want us to be happy (he wants us to be holy). In fact, many Christians are laboring under the false notion that God himself is not happy. But nothing could be further from the truth! God does want us to be happy. The Bible is filled with verses that prove that ours is a happy, joy-filled God who not only loves celebrations but also desperately wants his children to be happy. Why else would He go to the lengths He did to ensure our eternal happiness in His presence? We know that we will experience unimaginable joy and happiness in Heaven, but that doesn’t mean we can’t also experience joy and happiness here on earth.

2017 ECPA Christian Book Award Finalist (Christian Living category)

In Happiness, noted theologian Randy Alcorn dispels centuries of misconceptions about happiness and provides indisputable proof that God not only wants us to be happy, He commands it. The most definitive study on the subject of happiness to date, this book is a paradigm-shifting wake-up call for the church and Christians everywhere.

About Author Randy Alcorn

Before starting EPM in 1990, Randy served as a pastor for fourteen years. He has a Bachelor of Theology and Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from Multnomah University and an Honorary Doctorate from Western Seminary in Portland, Oregon. He has taught on the adjunct faculties of both.

A New York Times bestselling author, Randy has written over 50 books, including Happiness, Heaven, The Treasure Principle, and the Gold Medallion winner Safely Home. His books have been translated into over seventy languages and have sold over ten million copies. Randy has written for many magazines including EPM’s issues-oriented magazine Eternal Perspectives. He has been a guest on more than 700 radio, television and online programs. Some of those include Focus on the Family, FamilyLife Today, Revive Our Hearts, and The Bible Answer Man.

Randy resides in Gresham, Oregon, with his wife, Nanci. They have two married daughters and are the proud grandparents of five grandsons. Randy enjoys hanging out with his family, biking, underwater photography, research, and reading.

Contents (these are the large headings; many chapters under each)

One: Our Compelling Quest for Happiness – includes topics such as:

• Why Do we Long for Happiness?
• What Does our Longing for it Reveal About Us?
• Does God Wants Us to be Happy?
• Why Does it Matter?
• What’s the Difference Between Joy and Happiness?
• Do Modern Studies Confirm the Biblical Perspectives on Happiness?
• Is Being Happy Unspiritual?
• Can Good Things Become Idols that Steal Our Happiness?
• What Happens When we Put Pleasure Idols in God’s Place?
• What or Who is the Primary Source of Happiness?
• Do Secondary Gifts Have Real Value Apart from their Source?

Two: The Happiness of God

Three: The Bible’s Actual Words for Happiness

Four: Understanding and Experiencing Happiness in God