“GOD, WHO RICHLY PROVIDES US WITH EVERYTHING TO ENJOY.”
— 1 Timothy 6:17
In the Bible we meet a God who is not only after our obedience, but also our affections. He commands us to delight and rejoice. Stoic saints are not his brand. No religious robots allowed.
When God draws close to a person you will recognize it in their warm-hearted, hope-filled, cheerful countenance. Dawn will be in their eyes. You might even notice the corners of their mouth turned up, as if they know a secret.
The people nearest to God learn to rejoice in him always, not because their lives are easier or circumstances calmer. They’re not just happier people than the rest of us. They’ve learned to see the invisible God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
The gifts of heaven drip like rain all day long. It may look like a phone call from a friend, the smile of child, or an open door of opportunity. Words of encouragement may come at just the right time. A verse may lift off the pages of Scripture or a worship song perfectly articulate what’s in your heart. Those who walk with God see and know that all these are intentionally orchestrated notes by heaven’s conductor.
If our minds are set on things above, not on things that are on earth, almost everything can be received as a gift from God. The blue clouds at sunset, the crackle of a campfire, and the crash of a wave are all his rich provision.
Some of the money God gives you is for your enjoyment of life. Host your friends. Bless your family. Pick up the check. Go explore. See God’s world. Delight in this season of your life.
Religion would call this selfish. The Pharisees would remind us of the needs of the world. Scripture would invite us to delight in the God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
So devour a new book this summer. Sing along at a concert. Dig your feet into the sand. Take a nap in the backyard. Close your eyes and let your face feel his ocean breeze. Even our time off affords innumerable moments to worship God for his many gifts.
Our God invented joy. Jesus went to the cross for the joy set before him. And now he sets joy before you. Every day. When we notice and enjoy his good gifts, God is glorified and we realize that no gift could ever compare to the Giver.
For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forevermore. Amen.
© John Rinehart 2025