Title: Pursuit of Happiness
Speaker: Pastor Anthony Brereton
Date: 30th November 2025
Location: Ireland, UK
This episode explores the contrast between temporary pleasure and the lasting joy that comes from walking with God. Drawing from Solomon’s reflections in Ecclesiastes, the message highlights how abundance, success, and entertainment never truly satisfy, even in a world overflowing with options and distractions. The pursuit of “more” is exposed as empty when compared with the contentment found in the Lord.
The talk moves through biblical examples—from Esau trading his birthright, to Moses refusing the pleasures of Egypt, to the deliverance of Israel in Esther’s day—to show how temporary desires can derail long-term spiritual purpose. At the heart of the message is the reminder that God offers something deeper than pleasure: a joy that produces peace, strength, and true contentment.
The episode concludes by emphasising that God delights in His people and calls them to build their lives around His joy rather than the world’s distractions. Joy is not a fleeting feeling but an inner work of the Spirit—something the world cannot replicate and nothing material can replace.
Key Takeaways
- True joy is internal and lasting, while pleasure is external and temporary.
- The pursuit of happiness often distracts from God’s purpose and produces discontent.
- God’s joy becomes strength, peace, and stability for those who walk in His ways.
Scripture References
- Ecclesiastes 2
- Hebrews 11:25; Hebrews 12:1–2, 15
- Esther 9
- Zechariah 8:3–5
- Psalm 37:11–13
- Nehemiah 8
- Luke 15
- Philippians 4:1, 4
- 1 Timothy 6:6–12