In contemporary society, the pursuit of happiness and self-fulfillment is often touted as the ultimate goal of life. This perspective, however, stands in stark contrast to the worldview held by many Christian parents. Rooted in biblical teachings and a deep understanding of the purpose of life as defined by Scripture, Christian parents often reject the notion that happiness and self-satisfaction should be the central aims of existence. Instead, they emphasize a life centered on glorifying God, serving others, and seeking eternal significance.

The Biblical Purpose of Life

The Bible provides a clear and compelling narrative about the purpose of human life. According to the Westminster Shorter Catechism, the chief end of man is “to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever” (Westminster Shorter Catechism, Q1). This foundational statement encapsulates the Christian belief that life is primarily about honoring God and finding joy in a relationship with Him. This perspective is supported by numerous biblical passages, such as 1 Corinthians 10:31, which exhorts believers to “do all to the glory of God,” and Psalm 73:25-26, where the psalmist declares that there is nothing on earth he desires besides God.

Glorifying God Over Self-Fulfillment

Christian parents often teach their children that true fulfillment and joy come from living a life that honors God rather than pursuing personal happiness as an end in itself. This is because the Bible emphasizes that humans were created for God’s glory (Isaiah 43:7) and that our ultimate satisfaction is found in Him (Psalm 16:11). This understanding challenges the modern, individualistic notion that self-fulfillment is the highest good. Instead, it places God at the center of human existence, suggesting that any pursuit of happiness apart from Him is ultimately empty and unfulfilling.

The Role of Suffering and Trials

Another reason Christian parents disagree with the statement that the central goal of life is to be happy is the biblical teaching on suffering and trials. The Bible does not promise a life free from pain or difficulty; rather, it often speaks of the refining and sanctifying power of suffering. James 1:2-4 encourages believers to “consider it pure joy… whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” Similarly, Romans 5:3-5 speaks of rejoicing in sufferings because they produce perseverance, character, and hope.

Christian parents understand that a focus on personal happiness can lead to a shallow and fragile faith, one that crumbles in the face of adversity. Instead, they teach their children to find joy in God’s presence and purposes, even amid hardship. This perspective aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Serving Others as an Expression of Faith

Central to the Christian life is the call to serve others, reflecting the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The Bible is replete with commands to love and serve one’s neighbor (Matthew 22:39, Galatians 5:13). Christian parents emphasize that a life focused solely on personal happiness is inherently self-centered and contrary to the example set by Jesus, who “came not to be served but to serve” (Mark 10:45).

By teaching their children to prioritize service and compassion, Christian parents instill values that transcend mere self-interest. This approach fosters a sense of purpose and fulfillment that is deeply rooted in the Christian faith, as serving others is seen as a direct expression of one’s love for God (Matthew 25:40).

The Danger of Moral Therapeutic Deism

The concept of Moral Therapeutic Deism (MTD), identified by sociologists Christian Smith and Melinda Lundquist Denton, describes a belief system that has permeated much of contemporary American Christianity. MTD posits that the central goal of life is to be happy and feel good about oneself, with God playing a minimal role except when needed to resolve problems. This belief system is fundamentally at odds with traditional Christian teachings, which emphasize a life of discipleship, sacrifice, and service.

Christian parents reject MTD because it reduces faith to a means of achieving personal happiness, rather than a transformative relationship with God. They understand that true Christian faith involves a commitment to God’s will, even when it conflicts with personal desires. This commitment is exemplified in Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane: “Not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42).

Holiness and Happiness

A common misconception is that holiness and happiness are mutually exclusive. However, Christian theology teaches that true happiness is found in holiness—living a life that is pleasing to God. As Charles Spurgeon famously said, “Holiness is the royal road to happiness. The death of sin is the life of joy”. This perspective is supported by Scripture, which often links joy with righteous living (Psalm 32:1-2, Psalm 119:1-2).

Christian parents teach their children that pursuing holiness—through obedience to God’s commands, prayer, and spiritual growth—leads to a deeper and more lasting joy than the fleeting pleasures of the world. This joy is rooted in the assurance of God’s love and the hope of eternal life, which far surpasses any temporary happiness derived from self-centered pursuits.

The Eternal Perspective

Finally, Christian parents emphasize the importance of an eternal perspective. The Bible teaches that this life is temporary and that our ultimate home is with God in eternity. Jesus instructed his followers to “store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20), and the apostle Paul wrote about the “eternal glory that far outweighs” our present sufferings (2 Corinthians 4:17).

By focusing on eternal rewards rather than immediate gratification, Christian parents help their children develop a perspective that values spiritual growth and eternal significance over temporary happiness. This eternal perspective provides a sense of purpose and hope that transcends the ups and downs of earthly life.

Christian parents disagree with the statement that the central goal of life is to be happy and to feel good about oneself because it is fundamentally at odds with biblical teachings. The Bible calls believers to glorify God, serve others, embrace suffering as a means of growth, and maintain an eternal perspective. True joy and fulfillment, according to Christian faith, are found not in the pursuit of personal happiness but in a life devoted to God and His purposes. By instilling these values in their children, Christian parents aim to guide them toward a deeper, more meaningful, and ultimately more joyful life in Christ.