Is Belonging Required for Happiness?

“What does it take to make you happy?” is often asked out of frustration by a person who realizes they have failed to please somebody. The majority of human beings desire to be in relationships, for happiness is anchored to loving others and to belonging. From conception we are genetically linked to a mother and father.

Throughout life, belonging, accompanied by love is required for true happiness. To belong is more than being a part of an organization or family but reflects who we are as defined by our character. Belonging clearly distinguishes us from others by identifying our trustworthiness.

The wedding ring is a powerful symbol of belonging, security and love that is honored and respected by most people. By accepting God’s love, symbolized in Christ Jesus, we have his love, security and peace for all eternity. When we belong to Jesus Christ, joy and happiness will freely flow from us to others.            

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Christ encourages you, and his love comforts you. God’s Spirit unites you, and you are concerned for others. Now make me completely happy! Love in harmony by showing love for each other. Be united in what you think, as if you were only one person.

~Philippians 2:1-2 Contemporary English Version

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What Rates High on Your Hierarchy of Needs Scale?

What inspires western civilizations to put so much emphasis on the need for happiness? As basic physiological and safety needs are secured, more attention is given to happiness and the need for comfort and pleasure. When basic needs are threatened, happiness drops on the priority scale.

If you were to rate your happiness on a scale of zero to ten, what would be your actual score? Psychologist Abraham Maslow devised a hierarchy of needs scale, with physiological and safety needs coming first and the need for love and belonging being next. Yet, belonging to a family or other relationships may not generate happiness.

The wonderful thing about true happiness is, it’s contagious. Matthew 5:21 tells of a landowner who was so pleased with his servants that he invited them to share in his happiness. You can invite others to share in the happiness you enjoy as a Christian and in what it means to a be a son or daughter of the Lord God. 

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I hear about your faith in our Lord Jesus and about your love for all of God’s people. As you share your faith with others, I pray that they may come to know all the blessings Christ has given us. My friend, your love has make me happy and has greatly encouraged me. It has also cheered the hearts of God’s people.

~Philemon 1:5-7 Contemporary English Version

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Subscribe to the Attitudes Answers podcast on your favorite podcast platform to hear this and other 2-minute features 3 days every week.