• Finding True Happiness: Beyond Money and Wants

  Let’s talk about money. It’s a topic that’s pretty much always on our minds, right? We need it to survive, to pay bills, and maybe even to treat ourselves. But then there’s the tricky part, the whole want versus need thing. And to be honest, sometimes we get tripped up by greed, that insatiable craving for more. We see the shiny things. We can’t help but wonder if we just had that, would we finally be content?

  Having been homeless myself,

  I’ve seen both sides of this coin, up close and personal. I’ve known the stark reality of having absolutely nothing. I’ve felt the gnawing anxiety of not knowing where your next meal will come from or where you’ll lay your head. It’s an experience that really redefines the word “need”. And then, I’ve also had the experience of having more than enough. The kind of comfort that money can bring is real, I won’t lie. And you know what? It can buy happiness, sometimes… for a little while.

  But that’s just it, isn’t it? It’s temporary. That new car, the fancy clothes, that perfect vacation – they bring joy, sure, but it’s a fleeting kind of joy. It doesn’t fix the deeper issues we might be wrestling with.

  It’s kind of like that verse in the Bible that makes so much sense here, Philippians 4:12-13:

  “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

  Paul isn’t saying that money is evil, he’s saying that our relationship with it needs to be right. It’s not about the stuff, it’s about finding that inner peace, that godly contentment, no matter your bank balance. It’s about realizing that true satisfaction comes from something far bigger than accumulating possessions.

  Here’s the thing: getting our needs met is vital. But chasing endless wants, that’s where the problem really starts. It’s like trying to fill a bucket with holes.

  What truly nourishes our souls?

  • Meaningful relationships
  • Helping others
  • Personal growth
  • A sense of purpose
  • Connection with something bigger than ourselves

  What does that temporary “money happiness” look like?

  1. Excitement over a new purchase
  2. A sense of relief from financial stress
  3. Increased social status
  4. The feeling of having more control
  5. Instant gratification

  FAQs

  Q: Does this mean having money is bad? A: Not at all! Money itself is neutral, it’s how we use it and how it affects our hearts that makes the difference. It can be a tool for good.

  Q: What’s the difference between needing money and wanting it? A: Needing money is about covering basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare. Wanting is about discretionary purchases or the desire for more than what sustains you.

  Q: How can I be content if my needs are not being met? A: Reaching out for help from community resources or charities or even finding a good mentor is key. It’s also about shifting your focus to what you do have, and finding gratitude even in small things, and finding inner peace instead of worrying about things you cannot change.

  Q: Is it wrong to ever desire nice things? A: I don’t think so. It’s natural to appreciate beauty and comfort. But when that desire dictates your life, it’s time to check yourself!

  So, next time you catch yourself chasing after the latest gadget or dreaming about that million-dollar payout, remember: true happiness isn’t found in the stuff; it’s in the state of your heart. It’s that godly contentment that the apostle Paul spoke about, a contentment that can transcend any circumstances. It’s a lesson I’m constantly learning myself, even today.

  January 4, 2025