Happiness

 Man, having lost his way through the fall, is now stumbling upon the dark mountains of vanity, in search of that treasure, which he never can find in earthly things. He needs to be happy. To obtain this blessing, he is willing to forego many present enjoyments. Some brave the billows of the ocean; others dare the cannon's mouth; multitudes rise early, and late take rest, and eat the bread of carefulness, in order to accumulate those golden stores, which they fondly hope will purchase happiness. Riches perchance increase, but cares and vexatious anxieties grow up together with them. Happiness, like a flying phantom, still eludes their eager grasp, until, compelled at length to give up the chase, they exclaim with Solomon, "All is vanity and vexation of spirit." Here we may ask, why is man thus restless after an imaginary good? why does every possession lose its value, and every enjoyment its zest, while that certain something, still desired, yet unpossessed, fastens on the mind, and renders all other earthly pleasures comparatively insipid? Is it not that man was originally created for nobler ends, than those which he is now pursuing? He resembles a noble temple in ruins.We see the fragments of ancient grandeur; but they are so mutilated and destroyed, that no feeling is excited but that of pain, while viewing the desolation. The Gospel, like a guardian angel, points out to man the way to happiness. Here he may know how to obtain felicity; and here, through grace, he may be made wise unto salvation. Is he anxious to be rich? The Gospel unfolds to his view the unsearchable riches; while the Spirit is freely offered, to enable him, like the wise merchantman in the parable, to sell all and buy this treasure. Is he thirsting after glory? The Gospel reveals to him that honor which comes from God only; and that glory which is prepared forthe righteous in a future world. Is he desirous to obtain a name? The Gospel assures him that, if a believer, his name is written in heaven; for the righteous shall be had in everlasting remembrance. Is he panting after pleasure? The Gospel tells himof joy unspeakable; of a peace which passes understanding; of rivers of pleasure, which flow at God's right hand for evermore. Thus the Gospel of grace discovers to fallen man, not only the nature of true happiness, but the way to obtain it. It shows him the source of all misery—the fall of our first parents; and conducts him to the fountain of all blessedness—God manifest in the flesh. Thomas Reade