Life has more than one meaning. In most cases, we think of human life as breathing and a heartbeat. Christ often talked about a different kind of life--a spiritual life. Those who lack this type of life are not necessarily dead or dying physically, but they lack contentment, lack a sense of fulfillment, of purpose, of power, of destiny, of virtue. When we continually seek after and completely give ourselves over to Christ, we live in a state of continual joy, peace, love, and fulfillment. Christ came that we might have such life, and that we might have it more abundantly. I interpret this to mean, deeper joy, love, and fulfillment as we increasingly live as He did. If we prove that we are willing to do all things He asks us, we will be awarded with life that is so deep in its richness, it can be referred to as eternal life.
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Part of the great Plan of God involves allowing us to be tempted by the devil. Like a corrupt politician, Satan tells us that certain actions will produce the opposite effect of what will really happen. In every temptation he tells us that bad behavior will bring lasting satisfaction and happiness.
In truth, sin only brings fleeting pleasure. Like an addiction, we might try to sin more and more to try and regain that pleasure over and over. Initially, guilt accompanies sinful behavior. If we insist on continuing the sinful behavior we have to learn to either harden ourselves against the guilt or constantly feel the burden of guilt. Over time, even the temporary pleasure of sin fades, yet we may continue the sin simply because it has become part of our character. Sin never fully satisfies. It never brings lasting happiness. It never leaves us with a feeling of contentment. When Heavenly Father gives us commandments and instructions, they are not meant as restrictions to keep us from enjoying ourselves. In fact they keep us from such misery. Commandments and instructions from God are priceless because they are really guidelines on how to achieve lasting happiness. God has achieved lasting joy, consistent contentment, constant happiness. As a loving Father, He is trying to help us find the same in our own lives. He will not force it on us--real happiness can never be forced--but He will encourage and inspire, teach and persuade. Am I always happy? Do I live in constant joy? If I am willing, God will show me how to change so that I may be more and more content and happy. He will never quit helping me until I reach the state of perfect joy that He has attained. His guidelines may not always be easy, but they will always be easier than living in sin, and they will always lead to greater life enjoyment. |
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