I was talking with someone this week about a mutual friend of ours who has gone on to be with the Lord. This person was, still is, and will always be very dear to us. We laughed and smiled as we shared some stories and fond memories of our friend. If I had to describe my friend to you, I would say that they loved life. And as I write that, I have to point out that saying someone “loved life” is much different than saying someone “loved their life.” Some people are blessed with lives of earthly comfort and earthly wealth, lives which others might describe as “living on easy street.” From a worldly perspective, such a life does seem like it would be easy to love. But there is a big difference between “loving your life” and “loving life.”

My friend did not always walk on easy street. They did not always enjoy earthly comfort or earthly wealth. They experienced their fair share of trials, tribulations, stress, and struggle. And yet, they loved life. They viewed every day as a gift from God; a gift to be received and cherished. That is not always easy to do. In fact, some days it is downright difficult. I think that is what Paul is reminding us of in Philippians 4:13. In that chapter Paul says he has learned to be content in times of abundance and times of scarcity. On good days and bad days, Paul would tell you, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Our friend knew and embraced that great truth. And that, dear friend, is the secret to loving life.