I don't want my kids happy. I want them devoted.

So many Facebook memes, bumper stickers, and such tout the 'no matter what' commitment people proclaim that they will be sure their kids are 'happy.'

Don't get me wrong.  I am not against happiness for my family.  But I strongly believe that aiming at 'happy' as your target seldom yields happiness.

Devotion is the correct target.  Whether you are devoted to a hobby, person, or God... that devotion leads to solid and regular steps INVESTING in that relationship or pursuit WHICH YIELDS results.
And results (what the Bible often calls 'fruit') are the source and foundation for positive feelings.

My devotion to my savior, Jesus Christ, leads to daily times in the Bible to learn and grow AND to times of prayer and worship AND those stoke a heart that desires to LIVE like Christ.  So I end up serving others with a heart to serve them, rather than out of obligation.  I end up talking excitedly about Jesus because I know Him, rather than because someone told me I'd 'better' do so.

McClure kids - be devoted...  to Jesus.. to each other... to your mother and I... to your close friends and future families.  When we are devoted, our hearts are filled up.  When you choose devotion instead of happiness as your target, you will find both.
Aiming at 'feeling happy' can direct your steps to a lot of empty or harmful choices.
Aiming at devotion to right relationships can direct your steps to loving actions, positive attitudes, and selfless choices because that person is worth your efforts.

Be devoted.  Then you'll be happy.