We are living in an age of consumerism and materialism, where we are constantly sold the idea that more money and more stuff equals more happiness.  But even though Australians are richer than ever before, research suggests that we are definitely not happier. 

This leads me to believe that maybe more money and more stuff, does not always lead to more happiness.  I believe that Blaise Pascal highlights our true need when he says that, “There is a God-shaped vacuum in the heart of each man which cannot be satisfied by any created thing but only by God the Creator, made known through Jesus Christ.”

There is nothing wrong with having more money and more stuff, but these things will never be able to fill the emptiness in our hearts.  No matter how much we accumulate we will always feel the need for more, because only God can truly satisfy this longing in our hearts.

This is the core message of Paul’s words in Philippians 4:12-13, “I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything.  I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.  For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength,” (NLT).

No matter what your situation is currently, you can find peace, joy and happiness, right now, in Jesus.

God bless,

Roland Talamaivao-Amituanai