Live a Joy-filled, Generous Life

Live a Joy-filled, Generous Life
By Rick Warren

“These instructions are not empty words — they are your life! By obeying them you will enjoy a long life” (Deuteronomy 32:47a NLT).

Many people think the Bible is only filled with commands labeled “Thou shalt not …” They assume the Bible is all about restrictions that lead to a boring life.

But God wants you to live a joy-filled, healthy life. Here are two more factors that the Bible says supports good health -

Giving generously is good for your health. Every time you’re generous, every time you give to others, whether you’re giving through finances, service, or your time, it improves your health. There are more promises in the Bible about giving than anything else, because God wants you to be like him. And God is a giver.

Everything you have is a gift from God. He’s generous, and he wants you to be generous, too. The Bible says, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25 NIV). Doesn’t that verse just make you smile? There’s a reason why it always feels good to help others.

Having fun is good for your health. God tells us in his Word that life is meant to be enjoyed, not just endured. “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” (Proverbs 17:22). I like to put it this way: “He who laughs, lasts.” Learn to laugh at yourself, put some play in every day, relax, chill out, and have some fun.