1 Timothy 6:17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;

Our search for joy & happiness often takes us many different directions. We dream about nice vacations, homes, cars, shopping, atvs, the list is almost endless. These things often bring us joy and happiness. At times however, these things have the ability to bring with them a feeling of guilt. As if having them is somehow wrong.

Why is it we sometimes view the joy of earthly things as less than spiritual and show this feeling by apologizing for the nice things we might have? “I wouldn’t have bought this, but I got such a great deal on it.” As if real people that follow Jesus never eat a fillet mignon, drive a nice car, wear a nice outfit, or live in a nice house.

No one among us will argue that God’s greatest gift to us is His finished work at Calvary. It’s a gift beyond comparison. Jesus also promised that when we abide in Him, we will experience the fulfillment of His joy according to John 15:11. I know that without that kind of deep, abiding joy the rest of life will be mundane at best. Now, do not misunderstand me, I know that the Word of God says, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” But contentment does not mean the absence of stuff. It is important we do not allow our desires to shift our focus away from what God truly desires for our lives. But you can enjoy life and its blessings while being content.

Scripture also shows the joy of the Lord in terms of earthly things. The enjoyment of “things” can be a positive spiritual experience if handled correctly. When we recognize that it is God that “gives us richly all things to enjoy” and that “every good gift . . . is from above” according to James 1:17, our hearts should be full of thankfulness and praise because of His goodness to us. This, in and of itself, is an act of worship! Trust in the living God who gives all things to enjoy!