You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11 (NIV)
It’s natural to be motivated by the desire to pursue pleasure and avoid pain. That’s why it is so important to understand that serving God is the greatest pleasure you will ever have.
Our verse today says that eternal pleasures are at God’s right hand, but first it talks about the path of life and finding joy in God’s presence. You see, being focused solely on your pleasure can bring pain and heartache. But spending time in God’s presence and pursuing His path for your life brings a kind of pleasure that lasts!
Now, don’t misunderstand. Eternal pleasures aren’t just about heaven. Jesus said that He came so you could “have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows)” (John 10:10, AMP). He wants you to enjoy your life here on earth as well as eternity with God.
Although Jesus did say that we are to pick up our cross daily to follow Him (Luke 9:23), He didn’t mean that we can’t enjoy our lives. Many think this means you need to die to your desires and preferences and just suffer through life, but it’s not true. Jesus was teaching us to die to selfishness. Selfishness leads to a miserable life, so Jesus was actually teaching us how to enjoy life in this verse. You see, dying to selfishness and pursuing Jesus causes you to live a life of fulfilment, satisfaction and joy!
Following Jesus isn’t about settling for a miserable life. Focus on building your relationship with God and following His plans for your life, and expect to live the absolute best life you could possibly imagine.