Question 1: Is it true that all men seek happiness (even those who commit suicide?)
In my limited experiences, I find that it is true that all men seek happiness in some way. Some seek it in power, some in relationships, some in amusements, others in money, and the list goes on.
Is the pursuit of happiness inevitable?
It would seem so, especially if it is a God-given desire.
How do you think the Bible regards the pursuit of happiness? Cite scripture verses in your answer.
"To the man who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind." Ecclesiastes 2:26
If we please God, He will give us happiness.
"But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful." Psalm
68:3
The righteous should be happy and joyful before God.
"I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live." Ecclesiastes 3:12
Nothing better than to be happy and do good!
"Happy are the people who are in such a state; Happy are the people whose God is the LORD!" Psalm 144:15 We should be happy simply because our God is the Lord!
"Happy is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding;" Proverbs 3:13
Gaining wisdom is part of being happy.
Question 2: When you hear the phrase the glory of God, what comes to mind?
I think of that phrase in two different ways.
One, I think of the universe and of nature, and how that displays the glory of God. The vastness and the incredible design of the universe make me realize how awesome God is. I see His glory in all of creation. "The heavens declare the glory of God;And the firmament shows His handiwork." Psalm 19:1
Two, I think of "How can I bring glory to God?" What can I do that will show others the glory of God? How can He be glorified by my life? "Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31
What does the Bible mean by "the glory of God"?
I think it means the majesty, splendor and honor of God (Psalm 19:1). It also can mean the opinion, judgement, and view of God; a good opinion concerning one, resulting in praise, honour, and glory. (1 Corinthians 10:31).
(I looked up the greek word for glory in those verses here: http://www.studylight.org/)
Question 3: How would you define or describe love?
Love is everything. (1 Corinthians 13; Matthew 22:37-40) If you do not have love, you are nothing. It is hard to grasp this concept-- especially as our culture has us thinking that love is some kind of feeling. It is perfectly clear in 1 Corinthians 13 that that is simply not so. Love is so much more that that. Love is actions--Showing you care. Hugging someone. Giving a sacrificial gift. Keeping quiet when you want to speak in anger. Forgiving someone yet again. And so on...
How does the world define or describe love?
As I said earlier, the world views love as a feeling. It is something that you can "fall into" and "fall out of". It is not the kind that never fails. Rather, it is the kind that is selfish- what can I gain from this relationship?
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