The story...
I've tried to make myself feel better by eating more, recreating a pleasant place in time, replacing something I own with something better, or even working towards a goal on my Apple watch. I expect there are many similar, yet peculiar to you, things that you might add to your list.
When I'm seeking pleasure to make me feel better, I know my relationship with God isn't right - sin has crept into my life once again. I know this is true about me when I kneel down to pray in quiet meditation. My desires for pleasure melt away and I begin again to experience: love joy, peace patience, kindliness, goodness, gentleness and self control - fruit of the Spirit of God.
The only church in town will preach, teach, and work out God's Way for living the good life - its not characterized by self-actualizing and seeking pleasure. Walking honestly and humbly with your righteous God is the best place to be but an unrighteous man like me can't do it on his own. I'm with Him in Christ - it requires your belief in Him and His provision for you in Christ.
Just for today...
"I used to think that being good to myself meant eating whatever I wanted, buying anything that caught my eye, sleeping only a few hours a night, and avoiding any activities that weren't fun or exciting. The trouble was that consequences were very uncomfortable, and when I let myself think about it, I felt I was wasting my life." Courage to Change (p. 342)
"Speak your truth quietly and clearly; listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they, too, have their story." One Day at a Time (p. 342)
"Serenity is the sure knowledge of God's unconditional love for me. It is an acceptance of myself that flows from God's approving embrace." Hope for Today (p. 342)
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