There’s More to Life than Being Happy (Discover 3+ Existence Pillars)
I used to think the whole purpose of life was pursuing happiness. In a world that often preaches this idea, it’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that happiness is the sole purpose of life. Yet, delving deeper into the human experience reveals a more profound truth: there’s more to life than being happy.
If you look around, you’ll notice that almost everyone is pursing that perfect job, that perfect spouse, that perfect car, that perfect name. I read a history book that explains how a wealthy businessman in Kisumu, Kenya, committed suicide a few decades ago because he was accused of corruption. Imagine the shame.
Youths are joining politics, people are fighting over boyfriends and girlfriends. I have watched this trend since birth, but what recently struck me is the increasing suicide rate, divorce rate, and other regrettable evils in our society.
My research reveals that Kenya’s suicide rates mirror the high estimates for Africa, at 11.0 per 100 000 population. In the US, it’s approximately 14.3 deaths per 100,000 people. The highest suicide rates are among white males (26.4). Note that the US is a developed country, and many people are heading there in pursuit of happiness. About 100 years ago, our grandparents lived in highly deplorable conditions. Imagine how their houses and attires looked like. What about the infrastructure system?
Nevertheless, we likely have more reasons to complain than them.
I agree with the wise Viktor Frankl who once said, “Happiness cannot be pursued; it must ensue.” True fulfillment arises not from the relentless pursuit of happiness but from finding meaning and purpose in one’s existence.
This article explores the significance of finding the meaning of life beyond the short-lived pursuit of happiness through the four pillars of existence. We’ll be drawing insights from the timeless wisdom in the Bible.
- Life Purpose
The analogy of a lighthouse standing strong amidst a raging storm can be likened to a person leading a purpose-driven life. If this describes you, nothing can steal your energy.
In the church, leaders are working around the clock running after sponsors and potential good bishops (read money-suppliers). It’s all vanity. Business crocks who lack purpose are mentoring the next generation.
But God is preserving the remnants.
Purpose serves as the guiding light that illuminates our journey through life’s complex journey. It’s the beacon that gives direction and significance to our actions and choices.
Once you find a purpose in life, you can overcome obstacles and reach your goal. People who are leading purpose-driven lives are focuses on making a difference. They are selfless.
The Bible offers numerous examples of individuals who found profound meaning and purpose in the midst of adversity. Take the story of Joseph, for instance. Sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, Joseph endured years of hardship and injustice.
Yet, through unwavering faith and resilience, he rose to become a powerful ruler in Egypt, ultimately reconciling with his family and fulfilling a divine purpose.
Joseph’s story reminds us that meaning can be found even in the darkest of times. It’s during our struggles and trials that our character is forged and our purpose clarified.
As the apostle Paul wrote in Romans 5:3–4, “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.”
Consider the calling of Moses in Exodus 3. Moses, a reluctant leader, found his purpose in liberating the Israelites from bondage in Egypt. Despite his initial doubts and insecurities, he embraced his calling and became an instrument of divine providence.
Like these people, each of us is called to discover and fulfill our unique purpose.
Use your gifts and talents for the betterment of humanity, and be delivered from the greed of this world that offers no meanings.
Don’t offer this services in expectation for rewards, money, recognition, and the likes. It beats the purpose.
2.Sense of Belonging
Human beings are inherently social creatures, wired for connection and belonging. In Genesis 2:18, God declares, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” This verse highlights the profound truth that our sense of fulfillment is intricately linked to our relationships with others.
One time, I offered to help someone for free. He offered to pay me back later on. I felt dejected. Why? My service was designed to foster family spirit.
The good news is that we have many opportunities to cultivate a sense of belonging.
Belonging fosters a sense of community, support, and mutual care. Through acts of kindness, compassion, and solidarity, we create bonds that transcend individual differences and unite us in a shared humanity.
Just as the early Christian community in Acts 2:42–47 lived in harmony and shared everything they had, we too can find belonging in the fellowship of like-minded individuals, churches, or communities.
You can start today by joining your church’s small groups or home bible churches, the choir, the worship team, or the cleaning team. You’ll experience the difference once your service is accepted.
3.Transcending the Self
To truly experience meaning, we must transcend the narrow confines of the self and embrace a broader perspective that encompasses the welfare of others and the greater good.
Philippians 2:3–4 encapsulates this principle beautifully: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
Jesus Christ himself exemplified this principle through his life of selfless love and sacrificial service. In Mark 10:45, Jesus states, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Service not only enriches the lives of those we help but also brings profound fulfillment to our own lives. It shifts our focus from self-centered pursuits to the well-being of others, fostering compassion, empathy, and a sense of interconnectedness with humanity.
Transcendence involves moving beyond our ego-driven desires and ambitions and aligning ourselves with higher principles and values. It’s about surrendering to a greater purpose and participating in something larger than ourselves.
You can start today by engaging in acts of service, meditation, or prayer.
4. Redemptive Storytelling
Storytelling has the power to transform your understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Through the lens of redemptive storytelling, we reinterpret our past experiences and find meaning in the midst of suffering and adversity.
When you suffer, you have the option to blame everyone, including Satan and God. You also have the option to adopt redemptive storytelling.
Paradoxically, it’s often through suffering that we experience the most profound growth and transformation.
In James 1:2–4, we are encouraged to “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
Rather than avoiding or resenting suffering, we can embrace it as an opportunity for spiritual refinement and growth. Just as a diamond is formed under pressure, our character is honed and perfected through the challenges we face.
Romans 8:28 encapsulates this concept further: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
The Bible teaches us to seek a deeper connection with God and to align our lives with divine purpose. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus instructs his followers, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
By transcending our own desires and ego-driven ambitions, we open ourselves to a higher calling and a greater sense of fulfillment. As we align our lives with God’s will and purpose, we become co-creators in the unfolding of divine grace and love in the world.
In life, every triumph and tribulation becomes a thread in the larger narrative of redemption and restoration. By reframing our stories through the lens of hope and resilience, we uncover hidden blessings and opportunities for growth.
Just as Joseph recognized the redemptive purpose behind his trials and forgave his brothers, we too can find healing and wholeness through the power of redemptive storytelling.
Seeking Abundant Life is the Real Meaning of Life
While happiness is certainly a desirable aspect of the human experience, it is not the ultimate goal of life. True fulfillment and meaning are found in the pursuit of something greater than oneself — in service to others, in transcending personal desires, and in aligning with a higher purpose.
As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember the words of Jesus in John 10:10, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” Seek the abundant life that comes from discovering the reason for your existence, and you’ll overcome life’s challenges with greater ease.
You can learn more here:https://medium.com/@bernardomondi2020/theres-more-to-life-than-being-happy-discover-3-existence-pillars-76773d313162
