Americans have always had a thing about happiness. We all have certain unalienable rights declares our Declaration of Independence. Among them, “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”

So then, a couple of centuries into the chase, how are we doing? Alas, only so-so. A recent Pew Research Center survey showed that just a third (34%) of adults in this country say their very happy. Another half say they are pretty happy and 15% consider themselves not too happy.

Church and happiness

It seems some of us are happier than others. Not surprising the same survey showed that frequent churchgoers are happier than those who don’t.  People who attend church weekly or more often are happier than are those attending less often. Those who seldom or never attend services are the least likely to say they are very happy.

Well most any pastor worth his salt could’ve told you that.  After 30 plus years of pastoring I’ve found that people who attend church regularly feel more supported in life and have more meaningful relationships than those who don’t.  In line with that, frequent churchgoers seem to do better with the uncertainties of life or when ambused by unexpected crises. Couples that attend regularly seem to manage the rough patches in their marriages and aren’t as easily overwhelmed by the challenges of parenthood than those that don’t attend regularly. And I’ve found that people who are at church more often than not to be more spiritually vibrant and way more mature than those who aren’t. They are generally more joyful and upbeat and less likely to fall into deep, extended emotional funks compared to those that attend sporadically.

Interestingly they show up regularly not because it’s any easier or convenient for them than those that only attend now and then.  It’s not. When asked, most say they find the benefits of showing up and participating well worth the effort and outweigh the sacrifices they make getting to church on Sundays. They often speak of it as a ‘good habit’ they’re glad they’ve developed. They say their happier and better off because of it, not to mention feeling closer to God.

Plugged in?

How about you? A lot of you guys have been staying away from church lately. Honestly, how’s that working for you? How are things going between you and God? If not so good maybe you’re feeling the effects of being away.

The church is the local Body of Christ. I’m not talking about a building but the community of fellow believers is the place God does most of his work in our lives. As imperfect as it may be or as difficult as it might be to show up and participate in, the local church remains God’s only way to live the life Christ died on the cross and rose from the dead to give you. Many of you reading this need to seriously consider developing the good habit of regular church attendance. Or if in recent times you’ve fallen off for whatever reason, climb back on the fellowship wagon. You won’t be sorry.

If you’ve been away there’s some things going on at church that you might find helpful to get you in the swing of things again. For whatever reason Sundays might not be your thing right now. We’re gearing-up for our summer small group semester right now. Why not check one out. It’s a good way to get your feet wet again. We’re also having a Wine & Cheese party on the 14th in the Down Under Room at our office. This would be a great no-stress way to reconnect with friends while having a relaxing and enjoyable evening socializing.  Or maybe you just want to just show up this Sunday and get a fresh start. Just remember what the writer of the Letter to the Hebrew Christians wrote:

“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)

Hope to see ya around
Mike T