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Even better than really big cookies
Posted By Katrina
This week has been cookie-baking week in our house. And along with cookie-baking comes cookie tasting. Because, after all, I can’t give plates of cookies to teachers, bus drivers, and the mailman without having the treats officially approved by one or more of the Official Cookie Tasters who live here. My 8-year-old was the only guinea pig around on Monday night, so he was given an Oatmeal Butterscotch Cookie and asked for feedback. His response: “Mmmm… I wish there was such a thing as one of these cookies that you could eat and eat but it would never go away - there would just always be more to eat.” I guess it was a hit!
His answer, though, reminded me of an attitude that I frequently have: I would like more and more and more of those things that make me happy, the stuff that makes me feel good at the moment. Sometimes I might want more books, sometimes more chocolate, sometimes more room in our house. I’m sure I could make a fairly long list of items. But you know what? All that stuff, while it might make me temporarily happy, does very little to contribute to my joy level. In fact, it seems that the more of that “stuff” I have, the less satisfying it becomes. Too much chocolate and I end up feeling sick and disgusted with myself. Too much in the way of material things — like one more sweater or book or pair of shoes when I really don’t need those things — leaves me ultimately feeling hollow and shallow.
The truth is, there’s only one thing - well, actually one “Someone” - who can give us the deep-down, abiding joy that our souls long for. Look at what David tells God in Psalm 4:7:
You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound.
More than prosperity, more than “stuff,” more than success — and yes, more than a never-ending cookie, God’s joy is the real deal. It’s deeper than a smile on your face or a spring in your step, more than having a “good day.” The joy that comes from the Lord sustains us, infuses our attitudes and actions, and gives us peace and strength during the rough times. Way better than shoes and chocolate, wouldn’t you agree?
For discussion: Has there been a time when you’ve seen - with great clarity - how God’s joy is so much better than anything this world has to offer? Tell us about it.
Dec 13th, 2006
I feel that way too often about yummy food - I just wish it would last forever. But just like you say, it does not satisfy. I really notice after watching tv or a movie - even after reading a good book. I am enjoying it so much, not wanting it to end and then when it does, I feel empty and wanting more. It really is just a superficial distraction that doesn’t nourish my soul like time with Christ does.
Its really easy to get caught up in the things around you that are meaningless. The only eternal sustainer is Christ, and his Love is all consuming.
Everything else is just filler
Thanks for sharing Katrina!
Heather
YOu’re right. Things are fun for the moment but the fun doesn’t really last. Where gifts are concerned, it’s usually the most thoughtful ones that we get the most from, and I think it has to do with the thought behind the gift. When our house burned down years ago, as kids I think my sister and I came to realize how temporary things are. I hate it nowadays when I find my thoughts consumed with stuff. I just want to toss it all (okay not all but I am a purger) and be free from the care it all requires.
Great post! Cookies, yummmmm!!! As I’ve grown in my faith, I’ve come to realize that only when my cup is full of Christ, will it overflow with the goodness of the “things” in my life.
Wonderful post, and so true. The joy of the Lord is my strength; nothing worldly that satisfies my flesh temporarily gives me that strength–it only creates empty craving. But the Lord fills us, doesn’t He?
You’ve expressed it beautifully, Katrina. It’s so true. I find myself wanting more and more and if I get it, I almost always ask myself why I wanted it in the first place. I’m a serious purger and I try really hard to not accumulate stuff. I go on a tear to rid myself of all the “stuff” and a few months later I realize it crept back and I’ve done it again. I need to remember this post.
Wonderful Katrina…and I love seeing the photo of you!
This was a great post, Katrina! It is so true, and I really enjoyed reading it. Thanks for sharing!
Great thoughts! I agree completely that more is not always better, in the way of stuff, but that more of God is the best remedy for wanting what we don’t have.
I love oatmeal butterscotch cookies. Terry used to make them for me when we were dating! I haven’t made them in ages (and of course, he doesn’t make them anymore).
hi not really sure if this is what i SHOULD write but when you asked about God’s joy i thought of something that happened to me this week that brought me joy that i truly was of the Lord. when i do social things outside of my schedule i try hard to always ask Him to bless it (need to practise that at home more!!) and both times that i had people over to my house and then went out i just knew that i and they had been blessed. i really felt like i had experienced these people as Jesus might have (is that presumptuous??). even though none of them were Christians or even stayed long in my company just extending hospitality in Jesus name can truly bring joy when it is NOT about yourSELF! is that God’s joy? it sure made me feel mighty blessed :O)
sorry this is sooo long and thank you for a wonderful blog site.
pauline in oz
This is nothing real “earth shattering”, but a couple times in my life I have just been sitting outside feeling the warm breeze on my face, watching my kids play in the yard and even though I had housework to do, unpaid bills and other challenges, the PEACE that just flooded me made me smile and praise God, thinking “It just doesn’t get any better than this!” Then I just sit and soak in it for awhile. I still remember how good it felt to throw off the cares and worries and just enjoy this life for a little while. Mmmmmm…