"Life is hard, and then you die," or so says the world. But life's problems should not be insurmountable for the serious Christian. Many who call themselves followers of Christ fail to live the fulfilled life of abundance and joy promised by their Savior, not because of any lack of power existing with the center of their worship and affection, but because of a lifestyle of defeat and continued weaknesses that diminish their lives. I write about my experiences with this problem, and explore ways, offered both by scriptural admonishments and the offerings of the community church and other resources, to recapture the joy and peace necessary to live the promised "abundant life."