God created us to enjoy life. There is nothing wrong with seeking to enjoy life.
Jesus said: “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” – John 10:10
What do you think of when you think of abundant life? Good health, wealth, people who love you, achievement, success.
None of this is bad, but it can become bad if we pursue it in a way that hurts others – or hurts ourselves. Or doesn’t seek to obtain God’s best and highest for us.
God desires for us to have our highest and best. Our greatest enjoyment in life will come through a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. God loves all, so when we love God we will also love our neighbor and seek good for our neighbor.
“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” – Romans 14:17
Sometimes we serve God and our fellow man through the work we do. Maybe loving and serving your family. Maybe a job where we provide services or products. Working is a high calling from God, that we should recognize the service in and recognize the joy in it. Yes, work can be hard, bad bosses, bad co-workings, bad customers, bad environment, people who don’t appreciate you. No matter the circumstance you find yourself in, see it as service to God. Dedicate yourself to service to God
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” – Colossians 3:23-24
Heartily – willingly; have you ever thanked anyone for doing something, or asked them to do something for you and they responded “My pleasure”? That seems like they are doing it heartily!
As unto the Lord – whether people appreciate you or not, be assured that God does.
Of the Lord ye shall receive the reward… I’m thinking that the Lord can give the greatest reward. Salary and benefits are good, but the Lord’s reward is even better.
“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,” – Ephesians 3:20
God wants you to feel free to enjoy your life.