Happiness, Depression, and Christian Faith: Key Concepts and Approaches

How is happiness described in the context of this study?

Happiness can be described as a summer camp vibe, lightheartedness, or holiday season cheer, and it can range from feeling 'good' to 'fine'.

What do external goods of the world tend to do?

They tend to fade away and leave individuals feeling emptier than before.

What are some serious symptoms of depression mentioned?

Symptoms include numbness, low self-esteem, jaded feelings, guilt/shame, boredom, withdrawal, agitation, suicidal ideation, anger/rage, and lack of enthusiasm or interest.

What should we focus on to grasp the condition of happiness more accurately?

We should focus on joy, contentment, and satisfaction.

What question should one ask themselves regarding happiness?

Are we achieving joy, contentment, and satisfaction?

What are the two beliefs about contentment and satisfaction if man lacks 'it'?

1. Contentment and satisfaction are possible in life. 2. Contentment and satisfaction are not possible in life.

What are the four approaches oriented towards the belief that happiness is still out there?

1. Shoot the moon: If I get the right thing, then I will be happy. 2. Victim Card: I would be happy if it were not for something. 3. Driven: The next level has it. 4. Personal Self Doubt: What if something is wrong with me?

What are the three approaches oriented towards the belief that happiness is not out there?

1. Altruism: Happiness found in self-sacrifice. 2. Cynicism: No one can be happy or satisfied. 3. Detachment: Disconnect from self, life, and the world.

What is the progress principle regarding happiness?

Happiness is found in the pursuit of a goal, which provides motivation.

What are the two causes of unhappiness according to Augustine?

1. Exclusive Cause: Our loves are out of order (sin = lack of love). 2. Ultimate Cause: Failure to love God supremely.

What does the phrase 'You are what you think' or 'You are what you love' imply about humans?

It suggests that our identity is shaped by our thoughts and loves.

How powerful is human love described in the study?

Human love can lock our hearts onto things intensely, akin to a leech, which can be deadly.

What are the two ways humans can avoid unhealthy attachments in love?

1. Love with attachment: Powerfully cling to something. 2. Love with detachment: Harden the heart to love.

How can humans love God according to the study?

By turning from their sin and trusting in Jesus as Lord and Savior, and experiencing the love of God through the gospel.

Where in the Bible can we find the gospel story?

In John chapters 19-20.

What does religion produce according to the study?

Religion produces a Pharisee.

What does the gospel produce?

The gospel produces a Christian.

What is the definition of religion in this context?

Religion is law-focused, works/performance-based, and fails to address root causes like pride and sin.

How does religion feel compared to the gospel?

Religion feels more like a chore or task than a delight, often leading to feelings of obligation over love.

What is the gospel's core message?

Through grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, God sent His Son to die for our sins, and raised Him from the dead.

What are the two responses to the gospel?

1. Toward Christ (awakens). 2. Away from Christ (hardens).

How should a Christian view the things of the world in their search for satisfaction?

This requires a short answer based on individual interpretation.

What does a Christian have in Christ?

This requires a short answer based on individual interpretation.

How is Christ better than worldly pursuits?

This requires a short answer based on individual interpretation.