Having a Love for Life
Rikki Permenter, MAMFC, Th. M.
Question 1. What is the chief end of man? Answer: Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.
Westminster Shorter Catechism
I often hear people talk about the Christian life like it is a series of unfortunate events. They frame their conversation like living as a Christian causes them to miss out on the “good life” and the fun things the world has to offer. Sometimes in counseling, I hear people say things like “I knew it was what God wanted because it was exactly what I didn’t want to do.” Or I’ll hear them say things like “I’ll start living the Christian life once I’m older and want to settle down so that I won’t miss out on all those fun life experiences.” Have you ever heard people speak like this? Anytime I hear people speak like this I almost get offended. The Jesus I know doesn’t want you to miss out on the fun things in life. The Jesus I know leads you to the most fun and fulfilling things in life - he leads you to the most memorable life experiences.
If you’ve never heard of the Westminster Shorter Catechism, then you’re missing out. Its a great summary of the things Christians believe about a variety of topics in a clear and concise manner. The “things” are in the format of questions and answers. The very first question is about man’s purpose. The Bible holds that man’s purpose is to glorify God and enjoy him forever. Did you catch that … and ENJOY him forever. Are you enjoying God? Do you have a love for the Christian life you’re living? If you don’t, then you’re missing the real Christian life, you’re missing Jesus, and you’re missing the God of the Bible. Life is meant for enjoying God. We’re meant to live an abundant life that we love. Take some time during this Valentine's season where we focus on love and identify if you truly love your life and truly love the God of the Bible. If you don’t - any area minister would love to talk with you about how to start glorifying God with your life and thoroughly enjoying him forever.
This article can be found in print in the monthly Baptist Association of Southeast Louisiana newsletter.
