ESTHER 1:1, 3-4: Now it came to pass in the days of Ahasuerus (this was the Ahasuerus who
reigned over one hundred and twenty-seven provinces, from India to Ethiopia). . . that in the third year
of his reign he made a feast for all his officials and servants-the powers of Persia and Media, the
nobles, and the princes of the provinces being before him-when he showed the riches of his glorious
kingdom and the splendour of his excellent majesty for many days, one hundred and eighty days in
all.
A number of years ago a popular fad was to complete the phrase “Happiness is . . . ” Some
suggested that happiness is a cuddly warm puppy; others said happiness is having good health, a
comfortable home, money in the bank, a close family or loyal friends.
Had someone asked the Persian king Ahasuerus about happiness, he probably would have
answered, “Victory in battle.” Ahasuerus was gearing up to wage war against Greece.
It wasn’t that he needed more land; at its height the Persian Empire controlled nearly two million
square miles. Nor did he need more wealth. It took 180 days for Ahasuerus to display all his
possessions. None of this, however, made him happy.
Ahasuerus later failed in his attempt to conquer the Greeks. He was defeated at the battle of Salamis
and retreated home to lick his wounds. It wouldn’t have mattered anyway.
True happiness can no more be found in military victory than in material possessions. Instead, as the
children’s song expresses it, “Happiness is to know the Savior, living a life within His favor, having a
change in my behavior. Happiness is the Lord.”
What are you looking to for happiness? Family, friends and sufficient material possessions are
important. But knowing that your sins are forgiven and you’re on your way to heaven is real
happiness.
If you haven’t received Jesus Christ as your Savior, do so today. If you already have a personal
relationship with the Lord, take a few moments to meditate on all your blessings.
SUCCESS IS GETTING WHAT YOU WANT; HAPPINESS IS WANTING WHAT YOU GET.