So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this world than to eat, drink, and enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives them under the sun. (Ecclesiastes 8:15 NLT)

Of all the misconceptions about God, one of the most unfair is that He’s a cosmic killjoy. That He regulates the fun out of everything. That we have a choice between following Him or enjoying life. But that’s just not the truth—and never has been.

God gave Adam and Eve a literal Paradise, radiant beauty at every turn, exotic wildlife, the perfect temperature, and, best of all, no sin, guilt, or shame. God said, “Here you go. Enjoy everything that I’ve created.” How many types of trees, plants, and vegetation do you suppose that included? Hundreds? Thousands? Tens of thousands? All for Adam and Eve to taste, savor, explore, and enjoy.

And in that garden full of tasty delights, how many trees, plants, or vegetation were off-limits? Only one—the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. Hardly the work of a cosmic killjoy.

In His work of creation, God filled the heavens and earth with awe-inspiring beauty and wonders. He created oceans, lakes, and rivers to sail, swim, ski, scuba—and fish. He wired us with imagination so that we can create and enjoy music, literature, cinema, and more.

And for those who argue that the Lord’s instructions for godly living get in the way of “real” enjoyment, consider this: God knows the outcome of every life choice we make before we even make it. He sees clearly the paths that lead to guilt, shame, and addiction—things that eventually will make it impossible to enjoy life fully. Directing us away from those paths doesn’t make God the enemy of our enjoyment. It makes Him the perfect adviser for enjoying life to the fullest.

God also gives us access to joy that transcends circumstances. That’s why James was able to write, “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy” (James 1:2 NLT). On God’s path, nothing gets in the way of joy. We have the capacity to enjoy life regardless of what’s happening in our lives. Paul and Silas sang praises to God in prison (see Acts 16:25). Job praised God after he lost everything (see Job 1:21).

The secret is to stay hopeful and thankful. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (NLT).

Being thankful for that and everything else God has done for you will make you a happier person. So savor the sunset. Enjoy your meal. Linger with family and friends. Live in the moment. Lighten up. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Criticize less. Compliment more. Enjoy life to the fullest, just as God wants you to do.

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