EUDAEMONIA
“As the ball bounces” is an expression that tells us that “it’s just the way things are” or “it’s the way things worked out” and there’s nothing you can do about it. But there is!
Happiness; well-being and a life of purpose. Isn’t that what we all want?
To be joyful, cheerful and playful. Healthy. A direction in our days; a worthy life.
Rick Warren’s opening line in his book, Purpose Driven Life, is: “It’s not about you.” We can be living our life with eternal purpose. This world will disappoint. People will hurt us. We won’t always feel like we matter, but living out the purpose we were created for, gives meaning to our days and leads us toward a life we were meant to live. Warren’s book is a 42-day search for three of life’s questions that we often ask: Why do I exist? What significance do I have? and What’s my purpose here on earth?
We are a song, waiting to be sung. A flower ready to bloom. A laughter waiting to erupt from our bellies. We are God’s children always loved. And yet…
When we look at the grey sash of a day, heavy curtains over our eyes and a chill in the air, we can be pulled into the vortex of dismal, sadness and sickness. Like a deep well that permeates our souls, we long for the light and the vibrant squeeze of love to take us into a bright step of the sunshine.
King David, Job, Paul and Ruth from the bible were in those dark places, but they were prompted by promises from the Lord. When our souls cry out; the Lord hears. Even Jesus used laments; with Lazarus and before His death on the cross.
Psalms of lament are heartfelt words pleading for Divine Intervention. Some are personal and others corporate, but most of them end with hope.
Psalm 130:1 is a cry: “Out of the depths, I cry to you Lord; Lord, hear my voice.”
Psalm 6:3 is one of pain: “My soul is in deep anguish. How long, Lord, how long?”
As believers, we are saddened by the brokenness of our world, but as Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18, we have hope. We are to “weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15) and long for Jesus’ return.
Until then, we are to live with joy, peace, love and life. Jesus came to seek and save the lost. Our purpose is to glorify God and live in relationship with Him forever. Have you accepted Jesus as your Savior? It’s as simple as A - B - C.
Acknowledge that you (like all of us) are not perfect. Believe that Jesus died (on a cross) so you could live eternally with Him. Confess that He is in control of your life. Give it all to Him.
Pray that prayer and ask Jesus to come and live in your heart and start your relationship with Him today. You will be glad you did!