We are conditioned by the world-view of happiness that shapes our values. We long for lasting happiness because we are often mistaken in thinking that material wealth and worldly endeavors will provide the true happiness we so desperately seek. The happiness we have been conditioned to know it to be is fleeting.
What we are looking for is not happiness, but “blessedness” or “beatitude.”
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus implores his followers to pursue eternal happiness. Jesus did not use the word “happy” but “blessedness" - the qualities of God’s reign in our life.
Matthew 5:3-10 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
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