We need to try and live each day of our lives to the full for Christ’s sake, because He paid a very high price for us to be able to. He said, ‘I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows)’ (John 10:10 AMPC). He said: ‘I have told you these things, that My joy and delight may be in you, and that your joy and gladness may be of full measure and complete and overflowing’ (John 15:11 AMPC). He said, ‘Ask and keep on asking and you will receive, so that your joy (gladness, delight) may be full and complete’ (John 16:24 AMPC).

Jesus actually prayed that we’d have joy: ‘Now I am coming to You; I say these things while I am still in the world, so that My joy may be made full and complete and perfect in them [that they may experience My delight fulfilled in them, that My enjoyment may be perfected in their own souls, that they may have My gladness within them, filling their hearts]’ (John 17:13 AMPC). If Jesus Himself prayed such powerful words about His desire for us to have joy, we can have no doubts that God wants us to be happy and fulfilled.

As redeemed children of God, we’re all adverts for Christianity! Some people go around looking severe, stern, strict, sour, and sensorial, thinking that they’re being more ‘spiritual’. But non-Christians won’t find that attitude very appealing. Instead, we need a scriptural mindset that enables us to find joy in even the mundane things of life, and makes us more enjoyable to be around!

What Now?

As you go through the day, try to be aware of your joy level. If you’re doing something you don’t like, ask God to help you find glimpses of joy as you do it.