May 23


The Better Way


You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.

Psalm 16:11 (NLT)


With all your heart you must do what God wants as people who are obeying Christ. Do your work with enthusiasm. Work as if you were serving the Lord, not as if you were serving men and women. Remember that the Lord will give a reward to everyone, slave or free, for doing good.

Ephesians 6:6-8 (NCV)


Whatever we do, it is because Christ’s love controls us.

II Corinthians 5:14a (NLT)


I think we all struggle with this thing called the search for happiness. And, too often, we see the devastating end results.... Happiness, like all emotion, is fleeting. It comes, and it goes, but God offers something better. He offers us His joy! He offers joy, in this life, the abundant life Christ promises (John 10:10b) and, in eternity, the joy of His presence as we see in Psalm 16. Nothing can compare to this final joy.

While it may seem difficult to achieve joy, it really isn’t. Jesus tells us His burden is light, His yoke easy. Yeah, why is that? It’s because there are two sides to an oxen’s yoke. Jesus is there helping. So, if we pull with Christ, if we give Him all our heart, what’s the result? Eternal reward. Unexplainable. Unfathomable. Joy like we will never have here on earth.

So, sure, enjoy happiness when it comes your way, but think deeper, think strategic. Love God wholeheartedly ... and enjoy what happens!


LORD, motivate us solely for Your good will. Fill us with Your love. Amen.