Kids need the latest phone, computer, gadget or game to feel important. A dad might want the fastest car or a large TV to show off to his friends, or even that younger woman on his arm to feel young again. Mom needs botox to stay young looking or that sexy outfit to feel good about her body. Why is it people are having sex change operations, doing drugs, and appearing on television shows airing their “dirty” laundry all in the guise of 15 minutes of fame?
Has it not dawned on them that it doesn’t matter how much stuff you have, how popular you are, or how much money you earn? You’ll never be happy when you’re empty inside.
Drugs are a quick fix, but a lasting pain. So is buying a new television on credit. Or pumping your face full of drugs. The wrinkles will eventually come back. None of these things are a quick fix. The only true way to delete any emptiness you have inside is to fill your mind and soul with Jesus.
Psalm 37:4 states, Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. And what is it our heart really wants. To be happy, isn’t it?
God is the only thing that brings true happiness. He gives us a peace and joy no other “thing” can deliver.
Experts estimate that approximately 19 million people in the United States live with depression. If they walked in God’s word, would they still have such an issue? According to the Bible, we are to focus on others. The biggest problem with depression is we focus on ourselves. As far back as 2004, studies were done proving that to combat most forms of depression, volunteering is a big help. Yet, our doctors and government keep prescribing drugs.
Beauty products. Weight loss infomercials. Sporting events. These are all billion dollar industries that pray on how people feel about themselves. Their commercials scream, “Use my product to look your best” or “If your team wins, you’re a winner also”. The euphoria you immediately feel upon these purchases or that winning game might last for a day or two, but eventually that hole of emptiness will return.
If you have good character, a love for others, and God in your life, you won’t need all those outside things to make you happy. Fill your soul with the love of Jesus, and emptiness will elude you. Of course it will make one person very upset. Satan likes nothing more than to see a depressed Christian.
What do you do to fill the emptiness in your life? Is there someone special who has helped you through a hard time? Share with us your story. We’d love to hear it.