Too Much Happiness

Every man who strives in the games exercises self-control in all things. Now they do it to receive a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible. I therefore run like that, not aimlessly. I fight like that, not beating the air, but I beat my body and bring it into submission, lest by any means, after I have preached to others, I myself should be disqualified. 1 Corinthians 9:25-27 WEB.

There are so many things in life that God has given us to enjoy, and He wants us to have pleasure while we are here. Relationships, eating, drinking, work, health, exercise, and hobbies are all valuable pursuits. However, none of these are to become your life's end goal and sole focus.

Anytime something becomes more important in your life than God, then the cart is getting ahead of the horse. Before long, your life will take on an unhealthy balance. Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit, and it is nearly the opposite of addiction. Like the Apostle Paul, we are to discipline our body and make it obey us rather than follow its lusts and desires.

Jesus told a parable in Luke 12:21 about a man who hoarded wealth, and the last verse was: "So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God." The man's problem was that he was "not rich toward God," not because he was wealthy. God wants you to have wealth, but not for wealth to have control over you. God wants you to have food, but not for food to have control over you.

So put God first in your life. Involve Him in your work, in your relationships, in your hobbies, pray over your meals, and during your workouts. If you do this, things will balance, and He will show you when enough is enough. When He is invited into your life, He will participate in your activities and help you maintain a healthy balance. We should have moderation in all things, including moderation.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank You so much for all that You have given me. Please help me discipline my life and learn when to say no. Help me know when enough is enough. Teach me Your way, and give me a clear vision of the big picture. Make me steadfast. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen!

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