What Is the Secret of Happiness?

The secret of happiness has been defined by someone as the progressive accomplishing of worthwhile goals. Ancient theologians used the term summum bonum, which means "the greatest good." They believed that the greatest good was the "beatific vision" — seeing God — the attainment of that condition of spirit and soul which would allow them to come into the presence of God, to talk to Him, to see Him, and to be with Him. That was the ultimate good and the ultimate happiness.

Happiness is not a warm puppy or a fire on a cold night. It is not the beach at dawn or the other things that people say would make them happy. The deep, deep happiness that transcends all else comes from knowing God and, in turn, from being known by Him. Happiness is communing with Him, hearing His voice, and knowing that the work you accomplish in life, whatever it is, is in fulfillment of His desire for you. When you know and do these things, then you will begin to know perfect happiness (see Isaiah 26:3-4, Philippians 4:7, Proverbs 28:14, John 13:17).

Excerpt taken from Answers to 200 of Life's Most Probing Questions, Copyright 1984 by Pat Robertson.