Our country was built upon the backs of our founding fathers. Thomas Jefferson wrote in the Declaration of Independence, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

As we reflect on our country’s independence this month, may we take to heart the words of Thomas Jefferson. Have we accomplished this goal as a nation? Is “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness” a realistic expectation in a fallen and sinful world?

Let’s break it down, shall we:

Life – The right to exist without tyranny and violence.

Liberty – The right to live in a free country, a country with freedom of expression and freedom from oppression.

Happiness – In the Declaration, it means the freedom to live your life in the way that brings you fulfillment, so long as it doesn’t infringe on others’ rights. It’s a right to seek your own path, and a call for a government that respects and protects that pursuit.

While I agree that we should have a government that respects and protects our pursuit of happiness, perhaps Americans have fallen into the idea that “being happy” is the most important pursuit in life above all else. This may stem from the ideology found in the very conception of the United States of America. Is happiness the end goal of life?

St. Paul certainly didn’t think so. In Philippians 4:11–13, St. Paul writes:

“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Contentment: A grounded sense of satisfaction that helps guide responsible behavior.

In our “pursuit of happiness,” we can fall into the pit of self-absorption. “What will make me happy?” “My happiness comes first.”

This can lead us away from God’s Word and into our own winding paths of self-righteousness.

Do we have a “right” to pursue happiness according to our Constitution? YES. Should we pursue happiness at all costs? NO.

When we are content with what we have now, we are filled with gratitude, not a hunger for more. This leads to serving our neighbor and thinking of their happiness. It leads to behaviors that curb greedy desires and that starve our sinful nature. When we depend on God and His strength, and look to His Son Jesus, we can be content no matter how happy we may be in the moment.

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Contentment vs. Happiness in the Family Unit

This very “pursuit of happiness” can lead to broken families and tarnished relationships. In one’s journey of self-fulfillment, the path can lead to all forms of destruction: gluttony, pride, divorce, neglect, crime, drugs.

The pursuit of happiness can lead to sadness, depression, and despair when one looks inward at one’s own selfish desire.

At Eve’s Restoration Home, mothers will learn of their need for contentment. There is more to life than the circumstances that brought them to Eve’s Home. There is more to life than just the pursuit of happiness. What makes them “happy” may not lead them to reunification. The act of being content in all circumstances just may be the push they need to succeed.

“To sail the seas of happiness can lead to storms, hurricanes, and destruction. To sail the sea of contentment leads to still, steady waters. There may be beautiful sunny days and stormy weather, but the current stays steady and the wind in your sails is just right.”

We cannot open this home without your support. Your love for children and families can be literally brought to life through your one-time, yearly, or monthly donation. Your generosity will put these women on the path to rebuild and reunite their families.

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