When the Going is Good

For those who have believed in God for many years, reaching out to God in times of trouble is pretty natural. In fact, many of us may be quick to ask God for help when we encounter a problem, and quick to thank God when our problem is resolved. But what about the period in between, after our problems are resolved and before the next hardship comes our way?

What about when the going is good?

For me, this is the period when I tend to push God away the most. Life is smooth; I just want to enjoy it. I want to spend more time with friends or on hobbies or interests that I don’t otherwise have time for. I don’t need to read as much Bible or to pray thirty minutes at a time; I can relax a bit and do what I want.

In Luke 17:11-19, ten lepers were cleansed on their way to the priest. Nine of them possibly thought, “I can finally go and see my family and friends! I can finally enjoy my life!” But only one threw himself at Jesus’ feet and humbly said, “Thank you, Lord. I am well now.”

We may have the faith to ask God for help and the courtesy to acknowledge Him when He bestows a major blessing, but do we really treat God as our friend? Do we willingly spend time meditating on His word even when we aren’t looking for comfort? Do we praise and thank God for another typical day, smoothly come and gone?

Sometimes when I talk with my mom over the phone, she asks me, “Are you happy?” Our parents try very hard to give us a happy life. If we are happy, we should let them know. That way, they can be joyful knowing that their efforts have made a difference. So it is with God, our friend and Father. As eager as He is for us to confide in Him, He is eager for us to share our joys with Him. How pleased God would be if we took the time, in our happiness and contentment, to say “Lord, I am happy and well. Thank you!”

Let Him know today that His sacrifice wasn’t for nothing, and that His love, in times of distress or peace, does not go unnoticed.