Morning Devotional

July 24, 2003

“Grilled Steaks”  

by Don Emmitte

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I will praise you among all the people; I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you. The poor will eat and be satisfied. All who seek the LORD will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy. The whole earth will acknowledge the LORD and return to him. People from every nation will bow down before him. (Psalm 22:25-27 NLV). 

Emerson said, "Life is an ecstasy." When I read this quote by Emerson, I had to stop and think about its accuracy. While I certainly have heard many people refer to life as a most precious gift, would most people classify their existence as "ecstasy?" After all, I don't know about you, but that particular word conjures up images of sheer bliss and ultimate happiness. It is easy to wonder if such a state is even possible this side of heaven. My conclusion, however, is that it is possible. Life is potentially happiness in the fullest sense. In the midst of mediocrity and boredom it is difficult to imagine the truth of that statement. There are reminders though. 

Last week, when we were in the mountains, one night we decided to stay at the cabin and grill steaks for supper instead of going out to eat. As I was grilling our dinner outside, I was surprised by how much pleasure I gained from such a simple scene as being surrounded by my family, as we all talked and laughed while sitting around looking out over that beautiful scene. The smell of pine from the trees, and the steak on the grill were an intoxicating delight to breathe in! I remember thinking what could be better than this! 

It's amazing the small things we can find delight in, isn't it? Whether it's a stroll in the woods, a midnight viewing of the stars, or the pleasure one feels when they run in to an old friend in the mall, life can be an ecstasy if we learn to make the most out of each moment of every day. However, earthly happiness only goes so far, and the most fulfilling joy can only be found in, not only godly living, but also God, Himself. Those who are truly wise will seek God first and the happiness that comes from good honest living will fall in to place naturally. Our reading this morning makes this very clear. As good as this life may be, the greatest joy awaits those who have placed their faith and trust in the Lord.  

How ever you find your life today, whether it is filled with the pressures of an ever-escalating responsibility at work, or the declining absence of activity that has come with time, look for those little moments of delight that God has placed all along your path. They are there. Find them. Delight yourself in them. Then, recall that they are only a small taste of what is yet to come.