No, happiness isn’t a matter of luck—something some people gain and others don’t, regardless of what they’ve done to search for it. In fact, the harder we search for happiness, the less likely we may be to find it.

Instead, happiness comes from acting wisely and doing what’s right, just as unhappiness comes from acting unwisely and doing what’s wrong. Tragically, many people search for happiness in the wrong places or in the wrong ways, hoping (for example) that an unwise relationship or an immoral action will bring them happiness. But it never does—not in the long run. They think they’ll be the exception and will never have to pay the consequences, but this is false. The Bible warns, “The pride of your heart has deceived you” (Obadiah 1:3).

This is why I urge you to turn to Jesus Christ and commit your life to Him. God loves you. He loves you so much that He sent His only Son into the world to give His life for your salvation. Make Christ, and not yourself, the center and foundation of your life.

Then ask God to teach you His wisdom every day—wisdom that comes from His Word, the Bible. Make the Bible your daily guide, and seek to apply its truths to your life. (For many years, I read a chapter each day from Proverbs, which deals with life’s practical problems. I suggest you do the same.) Let the Psalmist’s prayer become yours: “Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me” (Psalm 119:133).

Find peace with God today.