What you prospectin'?

The gold rush of 1849 sent thousands of people west looking to strike it rich. People packed up everything they had, said goodbye to all that they knew and moved west. When and if they made it, they invested what they had left into their new profession. Their newfound career required for them to purchase a claim (land), tools and supplies.

At this point, the 49ers (miners) traveled out to their claim and began prospecting. Some folks were fortunate enough to hit the jackpot and gained great riches. Some found a small portion of gold, but nothing to write home about. Others found what appeared to be the big time and turned out to be fools gold.

What made the difference in success for the 49er? Thousands of people traveled out west for the sole purpose of looking (prospecting) for gold. They paid they price of family, money, time and effort. In the end, their results came down to location. Many people were doing everything right and were simply in the wrong place.

Today, in regards to joy, we're exactly the same way. Everyone wants to have a life of fulfillment and purpose. One of the ways we measure this is by the amount of joy we experience and give to others. If we are living in joy, we feel successful and purposeful. Therefore, whether we acknowledge it or not, we daily pursue activities and accomplishments that will provide us with joy. In many ways, we mirror the sacrifices and efforts of the 49ers. They were looking for gold, we are looking for purpose and joy.

The good news is that people can and do find joy. The sad thing is that many people find happiness, which is the fools gold of fulfillment. Happiness is a great thing to have, but it is a cheap counterfeit of joy. It looks good, but isn't worth a whole lot. Happiness is dependent upon circumstances. When things are good, we are happy. When circumstances turn dark. Happiness is tough to find. The great thing about joy is that it can be experienced at any moment, in any situation, because joy comes from the Lord. And He is willing to give it out.

So why do we so often find fools gold (happiness), when we are seeking pure Gold (joy)? Location, location, location!!! Just like the miners back in the day. You can do all the proper preparations, make all the sacrifices, and if you are looking in the wrong place, it is hopeless. The gold mine of Joy is God. Proverbs 10:28 say's "The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing." Fortunately for us, God has laid out how to be righteous in the Bible. When we live righteously, God supplies us with Joy. Consequently, we are able to live in any circumstance with joy.

Today, we live in a joy rush. Everyone desires to live a life of purpose and meaning. To be satisfied with their lives, no matter the situation. In what location have you staked your claim? Where are you prospectin' for joy?