You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures for evermore. (Psalm 16: 11)

For Aristotle the object of life is eudaimonia - a good soul - characterized by happiness and personal fulfillment. Most fulfilling is to practice arete: a way of living that is self-aware, honorable in dealing with others, and both creates and appreciates excellence.

In Paul's letter to the Greeks at Philippi (4:8) the evangelist incorporates this ethos into Christian teaching. "Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence (arete), if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."

The path that God intended for us is joyful. This is not just quiet satisfaction - though this may also be the case - it is na'iym - pleasurable, mirthful, beautiful, delightful, and sweet. We are called to joy. To claim this gift we must find, follow and fulfill the way of God.

Above is Fulfillment by Gustav Klimt.