Christian Living

Enjoying The Presence and Pleasures of God in the Midst of Difficult Times

by John Clark 
04/23/21
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For so long now people have been deprived of going here and there and doing this or that. Before the “plandemic” life was a routine of busyness and activity. It is likely for many that this type of life was a source of happiness and fulfillment. After all, most people are not used to a lack of activity, or sitting around not doing much. Sadly, depression and suicide have risen to new heights due to loneliness!

     COVID restrictions have forced many to go without the pleasures of life. What has replaced that? For some, not much. For others, there has been a big uptick in Bible reading. The focus has shifted. Bible sales and apps have dramatically increased. Among the younger generation more have begun reading the Bible because it has “helped them feel less lonely and improved their mental health” says writer Rebecca Paveley. This, of course, is a very good thing with positive “side effects.”

     Both Christians and non-Christians have chosen to use their time to pursue God more. Some are discovering for the very first time that the real pleasures of life are found in God. Psalm 16:11 says “God will make known to me the path of life. In His presence is fullness of joy. In His right hand are  pleasures forever.”

     Any awake person knows by now that restrictions are going to continue indefinitely. Life could become even more limited for those who are well informed about the vacccine and refuse to take it, and consequently will not be able to obtain a vaccine passport to buy basic goods and services. Hopefully, people can still enjoy life in God’s presence, and will trust in His provisions.

     Along with the restrictions, I think I speak for the average Christian when I say that we are getting weary of all the evil, godlessness, and immorality. Are you weary enough to where you find solace in the Lord’s presence a welcome relief? If your church has shut down, you can still come into God’s presence through Bible reading, listening to music that draws you into worship, or reading inspiring books. Weariness can be replaced with God’s wonder, or enjoying His creation. 

     As Christians we also have a marvelous future to look forward to. Romans 8:23 states, “We ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our body.” Groaning can be an outward expression of weariness. 

     It is time to shift our focus from earthly pleasures and pursuits to finding our enjoyment in God’s presence and what He has in store for us. Author Dennis Huebshman says, “The so-called pleasures of life of this earth are meaningless compared to what lies ahead for us.” And it won’t be long before we are literally in God’s presence!