If our only secure comfort is Christ, and if the main reason we exist is God-glorifying gladness, then we should pursue happiness in the Lord. But what does that involve? "What must you know to live and die in the joy of this comfort? Three things: first, how great my sin and misery are; second, how I am set free from all my sins and misery; third, how I am to thank God for such deliverance" (Heidelberg Catechism).

Key #1: Know the problem. Many of us don't know the mess we're in. Fun times make us think life is going well. But these pleasures trick us and addict us. We are "foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures" (3:3). Such things ruin us, harm others, and enrage God. We must admit the mess we're in, or we'll never get out of it.

Key #2: Know the way out of the mess. "But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior" (3:4-6). Jesus is the only way out of our mess.

Key #3: Know the good life. "Devote [yourself] to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone" (3:8). Live in grateful, God-glorifying gladness, following his pattern for obedient love.

PRAYER--Father, forgive my sin and relieve my misery. Accept me for the sake of Jesus crucified and risen. By your Spirit help me to delight in your will for me. Amen.