Slim Down

“Joy is the serious business of heaven” C.S. Lewis

This statement makes some people uncomfortable, as if joy, especially fun, is illegal, or at least unspiritual. Yet, the Bible is full of reminders and reasons for us to rejoice! In this broken, sinful world we have been given the promises and life of God – we have both reason and permission to enjoy God’s promises and provision!

Here is a question? Are you enjoying your life? Most people are not. Most are waiting to enjoy life. After the to-do list is completed…after retirement…after raise kids…when circumstances change, when have more money…after, later, someday…

Jesus said He came that we may have life and life more abundantly. I ask again – are you deeply enjoying the life God has given you? If life is a gift to enjoy, why are so many discouraged and weighed down all the time? Why so much depression, stress and anxiety?

Let me offer 5 suggestions to help you go against the grain of our American culture and rediscover JOY.

SLOW DOWN
– Speed kills joy. Spiritual development and intimacy with Christ are impossible in a hurried life.
“Be still and know that I am God” Ps 46:10

SLIM DOWN
-Not your diet, you schedule. Simplify your schedule, commitments and goals. Do not get over extended – Learn the word NO. Don’t live other people’s expectations for your life. Ask God where you may need to subtract.

SIT DOWN
-Live in today. Not tomorrow (what may be), not yesterday (what already happened).

LOOK AROUND
-What blessings can you celebrate today? Take time to notice beauty, people, blessings in your life. Grab a pen and paper and make a list. You’ll be surprised and refreshed!

PLAN IN
-Make FUN a priority. Schedule it. Time off, vacations, date night, meals with friends, family time, walk in the morning…other wise life will always be go…go…go. Be intentional about how you spend your time or you will never have any to spend!


Remember, BALANCE is key. To experience abundant life requires us to examine our unhealthy behavior and habits and ask God to help us change them. People who plan time for family, friends, and enjoyment will have a much closer walk with Christ and others. Be different, defy the American culture, live your life to a different beat and ENJOY!


Blessings,
Darren