Beyond the Good Life
February 2, 2026
"Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years."
James 5:17 (NIV)
What if everything you've been working toward your entire life isn't enough?
Your neighbor pulls in the driveway with a new car. You see a friend’s vacation photos on social media. Maybe you dream of a new house that’s not in the budget. It’s human nature to chase comfort, success, and security. We think that's "the good life," living with luxury and few worries.
But James 5:17 teaches us about chasing a different kind of security and success. Elijah, it says, was "a human being, even as we are." This wasn't some superhero. He was tempted with the same pursuits—success, security, and comfort. But he became the gold standard by which every prophet in Scripture is measured. What made the difference?
Elijah didn't settle for the good life. He pursued the God life. He chased a life lived in God's presence, through His power, and for His praise. The good life gives you happiness right now. The God life gives you joy forever.
The reality is that you can have everything the world offers and still end up empty. When the good life ends, it's over. But when you choose the God life, you step into something eternal.
Stepping into the God life doesn’t require impressive feats but consistent choices every day. Before you make that next purchase or chase another promotion, ask yourself, "Am I building the good life or the God life?" Then pray. Ask God to give you more than comfort. Ask for His purpose. Ask Him to show you what living for His glory looks like today.
The good life is temporary. The God life is eternal.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the good life that only comes from knowing You. Forgive me for settling for comfort when You've called me to something far greater. I want to live the life You designed for me. Help me pursue Your presence, Your power, and Your purpose above everything else. Give me a heart to choose eternal joy over temporary happiness. In Jesus' name, Amen.