Is Happiness the Absence of Sadness?
Is Happiness the Absence of Sadness?  
Podcast: Lisa Harper's Back Porch Theology
Published On: Mon Sep 26 2022
Description: Learn more about Operation Christmas Child here.Save 25% off an annual subscription to Dwell here.Our Highest Good is available for purchase here.AccessMore presents Wonder. Live with Lisa Harper. Find out more here.Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. Find your nearest Operation Christmas Child drop off location here. Click here to get a 25% discount on the Dwell Bible App. During today’s conversation on Back Porch Theology, we’re going to wrestle with the question: “Is true happiness actually the absence of sadness” and in so doing we’re to delve into the theological territory of “theodicy.” We’re also going to talk openly and honestly about the false assumption that when you put your hope in Jesus, He’ll make life easier – possibly even painless. The Biblical text and compelling true story we’re diving into is found in the Old Testament Historical book of First Samuel. And since it goes without saying that Alli & I are rabid Dr. Tim Keller fans, we’ve chosen this quote from Dr. Keller as the tantalizing intro for today’s convo on the porch: “While other worldviews lead us to sit in the midst of life’s joys, foreseeing the coming sorrows, Christianity empowers its people to sit in the midst of this world’s sorrows, tasting the coming joy.” So please grab a cup of coffee and your Bible – unless you’re driving or practicing math on an abacus, of course – and come hang out on the porch with us. Follow Us On Instagram! @BackPorchTheologyPodcast@LisaDHarper@AllisonAllen@Jim.Howard.Co Back Porth Theology is sponsored in part by the Tov for Women Event at Northern Seminary. Log onto CWLNorthern.com/events for more information.