8 TIPS TO BECOMING A HAPPIER CHRISTIAN

September 20, 2011 at 11:01am

Are Emotions Ruling Your Life?
Many of us go through the motions of life and cant seem to find true happiness. Where does this
bliss come from? Does it come from some big promotion or vicariously living through a celebrity on
Twitter or Facebook? When it ends, do you find yourself craving more stuff to feel better or ignite
those good ol' happy feelings?
If we are honest with ourselves, we are all guilty.
Regardless of the vice, the buzz of euphoric joy usually dissipates after we receive good news or
when we finally get our breakthrough. What happens when you feel like heaven is silent or you are
on a emotional roller coaster when plans are derailed? During that time we need the Word to sustain
us, when our feelings wont cooperate and want to flare up when nothing is going right.
You were meant to be more than a mere survivor, right? So lets get on with it! Here are a few simple
and practical ways to become a happier Christian.



1. Help Me, I Need a Break!
Not everyone can hop on a plane to get away from the hassles of life. Its even harder when its you
that you need to get away from! If your thoughts go from zero to 60 in seconds, find a scripture that
speaks to you and mediate on it. Post-it Notes are great way to do this. Post the scripture
everywhere you can.
The constant reflection of scriptures of your choice will sink into your spirit and take root when those
thoughts come knocking and work to sour your emotions.



2. Give it up and Rejoice
When you have done all you can in your circumstances--give it up to God. This is so hard because
we want to take control, but laying your prayers down will give you a sense of release and that God
is the author of your story. Speak the Word of God over your life out loud. Casting down
imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing
into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).



3. Take a Social Media Break
Shut the computer off and fast social media for a while. Yes you can do this! With so much vying for
your attention, unplugging for a time will help you invest in other things like God, friends, family and
yourself.



4. Share the Love
Ouch! Give of yourself a little more? You have to be kidding? As hard as this is, getting your mind off
of yourself and serving others will make you feel better. Try a simple act of sowing a seed into
another person's life.
When you meet another persons needs, God will meet yours. Yes, you will feel better.



5. A Little Prose and Lots of Rants
You dont have to be a poet to write down your struggles or thoughts on paper. Dont hold anything
back. Use colored markers. The different colors often depict the emotions you are feeling. Releasing
anxiety through a rant book, I call it; can help you be honest with yourself and God. This is another
good way for you to reflect on how God has answered your prayers over time. Then go back in your
writings and put the date God answered those prayers. It will encourage you when youre feeling
bewildered.



6. Morning Prayer
Building a deeper relationship with God takes time. Morning time reflection is a great way to spend
time reading and praying. Its worth getting up a little earlier to build yourself up before starting your
day. A nice cup of coffee or tea and reading the Bible or devotional will do wonders for your moods
and anxiety. Also letting go of offenses and strife will help you continue to grow during prayer. Ask
God if there is anything hindering your prayer life and walk. Be quick to repent (as hard as it is), but
avoid condemnation because through Jesus Christ we are free!



7. Get Real
Thats right--throw it all out there! Its not like God doesnt know what youre thinking. We tend to
wear masks in the world. Stop hiding. Start talking to God openly if you are angry, frustrated or
becoming bitter towards your unanswered prayers.



8. Speak Positive Words over Your Life, Situation
Confess favor and wisdom over your situation. Build yourself up. Just like Daniel had favor and
success I (name) will have favor and success. Again, find scripture that encourages you and
confess it. Praise God, although your emotions are screaming for you to shut up.