DON’T FORGET TO ENJOY LIFE

The Book of Ecclesiastes was written by King Solomon of Israel. A man of the world, who knew through trial and error the futility of life lived outside the wisdom of following God. He knew the brokenness of the world, and the permeating effects of sin over all areas of life. “I have seen everything that is done under the sun, and behold, all is vanity and a striving after wind.” (1:14) He journeyed the many paths mankind pursues to find purpose, meaning, and fulfillment – from hedonism to education, and hard work to leaving a legacy – only to find them empty. And yet, his conclusion isn’t to build walls and isolate from everything in the world. In seeing the futility of the fleeting pleasures of the world, he encourages the righteous enjoyment of them. “I commend joy, for man has nothing better under the sun but to eat and drink and be joyful, for this will go with him in his toil through the days of his life that God has given him under the sun.” (8:15) No one escapes death, nor judgment, but for those who have walked the way of Yahweh, life can be full of purpose, joy, and the realistic hope of what is to come. In the meantime, Solomon concludes – “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” (12:13) So friends, don’t forget to enjoy the fleeting days of life that God has given you, before you know it they will be gone!