John Piper taught: Christian Hedonism is the theological conviction that God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him. Hedonism is negatively understood as the idolatry of pleasure. In contrast, Christian hedonism is a righteous pursuit of satisfaction and pleasure that is delightfully focused upon God and received from him with gratitude. (Psalm 37:4) “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” (Psalms 16:11)
Pleasure in Him: The world could offer pleasures. For Moses, the pleasure of position and power in Egypt was sin. Hence, he refused that and took the reproach of Christ. He also looked for an eternal reward. In fact, Moses achieved or received a satisfying happiness in God. So, God was glorified. Eternity is placed in the hearts of people. (Ecclesiastes 3:11) The yearnings, desires, and pursuits should be fulfilled by God. The Bible condemns those who seek happiness apart from God. To ignore God, or neglect His call and path, or live in rebellion and disobedience is a sinful way to seek happiness. (Jeremiah 2:13)
Joy: The human desire for happiness is fulfilled in the pursuit of joy in the Lord. Christian hedonism is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, pursuing the Kingdom priorities. (Romans 14:17) Joy is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23) The joy of the Lord is the strength of a believer. (Nehemiah 8:10) Paul exhorts from prison to those outside to rejoice in the Lord always. (Philippians 4:4) Such joy brings glory and honour to God. There is joy because there is a reward for faith. (Hebrews 11:6)
Worship: Being satisfied in God is a form of worship. It is true worship indeed, because it avoids seeking pleasure and satisfaction from any other worldly things, selfishness, or other people. C. S. Lewis felt that Christians are too easily satisfied and need to seek greater joy in the Lord. Christ is magnified when believers are most satisfied in Him. (Philippians 1:20-21)
Am I fully satisfied with the Lord?