If you’re a Christian, you ought to be enjoying life more than ever. After all, Jesus didn’t redeem you so that you could be sad, depressed, sick and broke. He came so you could have “life, and…have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). Kenneth and Gloria Copeland have been living that reality for more than 45 years, and they’ve taught others how to live it, too. Here are five tips for enjoying life more at any age, whether you’re 18 or 81.
Enjoy Life More by Continuing to Grow. As a Christian, you shouldn’t simply maintain the faith you’ve developed in the past. You must keep growing in your relationship with God. You can’t afford to get so busy with the mundane affairs of day-to-day living that you get complacent. That only leaves you vulnerable to discouragement, fear and complacency. Instead, dive deeper into your Bible study. You can do this by joining (or starting) a Bible study with like-minded believers, turning your TV to the Believer’s Voice of Victory broadcast and listening to messages by trusted ministers of the Word (Romans 10:17). Look for ways you can strengthen your faith every day.
Enjoy Life More by Listening to the Holy Spirit. The Lord will speak to you through your Bible study, but He’ll also speak directly to your spirit as you pray and listen. Spend time in prayer every day—not just speaking, but also listening. Obey whatever the Lord leads you to do. If you will listen, the Holy Spirit will direct you throughout your day (Psalm 37:23).
Enjoy Life More by Reaching Out. As you learn more about the Lord and His Word, your desire to share God’s goodness with others should grow, too. Begin looking for ways you can be a blessing to others. Volunteer your time at a hospital, nursing home, food bank, animal shelter or children’s outreach. In 2012, U.S. News reported that people who volunteer feel more connected and happier. If you’ll pray every day, God will begin to lead you to do things that will bless others.
Enjoy Life More by Speaking Life. Pay attention to your words. Begin speaking words of faith about your life, your body, your family, your marriage, your job and your finances. Instead of speaking negative words that tear yourself and others down, speak the Word over everyone and everything. When a difficult situation arises, don’t rehash the dreary details, pray about it, find scriptures to stand on for it and proclaim, “My God shall supply all my need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).
Enjoy Life More by Forgiving. As a believer, love is your greatest commandment. If you’re not walking in love, you’re in a dangerous place. If you’ve done anything unloving toward someone, do whatever the Lord shows you to do to make it right. If they’ve done something unloving toward you, forgive them. It doesn’t matter what they did. If you forgive them, you’ll be free of it. If you don’t, that unforgiveness will keep you in bondage.
God wants you to enjoy your life in Christ, and He’s provided some practical ways for you to begin doing just that—starting with these five tips. Put them into practice today and begin to enjoy your life more…no matter what your age!
Content from kcm.org
