When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love . . . I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!—John 15:10–11 (NLT)

One of my friends connects with me periodically and always asks the same question: “Are you still enjoying life on the sailboat, or are you ready to move back into a house?” My answer never changes. “Moving onto a sailboat wasn’t something we did by our own volition. We did it because Jesus said to do it, and we’re here to stay until He tells us otherwise.”

My friend cannot fathom how I can live in tiny quarters with few earthly belongings and remain happy, especially in winter. Truthfully, I can’t understand it either apart from Jesus giving me joy.

Jesus promised His disciples that He would fill them with overflowing joy if they obeyed Him. I’ve experienced the fulfillment of this promise. I constantly marvel at the opportunity to build friendships with people whose lifestyle and beliefs are much different from mine. Knowing them enriches my life. So does finding contentment apart from material possessions and seeing how Jesus takes care of life’s little details, such as reserving a washer and dryer for me in the marina laundromat when I’m pressed for time.

Sometimes Jesus asks us to do things considered radical. Obedience may or may not be easy, but the payback is amazing. I wouldn’t trade the joy I’ve experienced by following Him for anything.