THE GOOD LIFE OR THE 'GOD' LIFE?

"We define that [good] life as the presence of comfort and security combined with the absence of hardship and disappointment... [We] often try to buy experiences and environments that foster a soft and satisfying lifestyle... In contrast, a biblical understanding of "the good life" is one that provides and exploits opportunities in order to experience, obey and serve God and other people. The existence of difficulties, failures and even persecution are not so much indicators of failure as they are events that build character and test our resolve to know, love and serve God. If life is primarily a spiritual battle, then we must expect to encounter trials and pitfalls."
- George Barna - Transforming Children Into Spiritual Champions