Religion Brings Happiness – Sunday, January 09, 1983
It is traditional to look upon this season as a time to begin anew, to rise above past mistakes. It is also a time when many individuals examine their priorities and lifetime objectives and feel the need to increase their spirituality and religious commitment.
There is a strong relationship between happiness and certain religious values, such as the feeling that life has meaning and direction. Those who lack meaning in their lives tend to be less happy with almost every aspect of living—less satisfied with the recognition they receive, with their financial situation, their home, job, marriage, friends, where they live and even their own physical attractiveness.
On the other hand, people who feel in harmony with the universe and have confidence in their own guiding values, tend to be somewhat better off than the rest of the population. Their health is better, and they report less anxiety, tiredness and loneliness. People who have a strong sense that their lives have meaning, and direction tend to be happier with the role religion plays in their lives, and they believe religion is important to their happiness.
True happiness is a state of the spirit, an attitude of the mind. It is not an external condition brought about by material things. The Savior told us that the spiritual road—the road to self-mastery—is the only road to true happiness.
There is an upswing in religious interest by young people, and the trend is especially strong among young adults, particularly those in their 20’s and 30’s. Religious leaders believe this movement is prompted, in part, .by economic conditions, a sense of world crises, and a quest for an alternative to secular lifestyles of the past few years. These young adults are finding a renewed strength and perspective that seems to help them in their personal lives. They are realizing that a relationship with God is an essential element in maintaining personal balance.
And so, it is for each of us. The choice—whether to increase our religious commitment or not—is ours. And once made, it must be reaffirmed every day and every moment. It is hard to give up old habits and more difficult still to conquer our own wills. But the Lord will bless us in our efforts. He asks only that we have faith in Him and make every effort to keep His commandments, which have been given to us for our own well-being, and for our own lasting happiness.
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January 09, 1983
Broadcast Number 2,786