For years now researchers have been trying to determine if money can buy happiness. Previous research has shown that wealthy countries typically rank higher on life satisfaction (or happiness), which is not the same as meaning. But a recent extensive study focused on what gives life meaning. Surprisingly, the researchers found that meaning in life derives primarily from one source—religion.

An article in The Atlantic reported that the researchers analyzed numerous factors—education, fertility rates, individualism, and social support (having relatives and friends to count on in troubled times)—to see if they could explain the findings, but in the end it came down to religion. The study said, "Instead of relying on religion to give life meaning, people in wealthy societies today try to create their own meaning via their identity and self-knowledge…. Creating the meaning of your own life sounds very nice as an ideal, but in reality it may be impossible."

Possible Preaching Angle:

The study doesn't explicitly focus on Christ, but it does show the hollowness of secularism.