‘Each day is God’s gift.’ Ecclesiastes 9:9 MSG

I had a very interesting conversation this morning about life and such things. One of the topics was why are we here, is it just to make money? My response was that happiness is more than wealth not just the pursuit of it.

Solomon writes: ‘Seize life! Eat bread with gusto … Oh, yes - God takes pleasure in your pleasure! Dress festively every morning. Don’t skimp on colours and scarves. Relish life with the spouse you love … every day of your precarious life. Each day is God’s gift. It’s all you get in exchange for the hard work of staying alive. Make the most of each one! Whatever turns up, grab it and do it. And heartily! This is your last and only chance … for there’s neither work to do nor thoughts to think in the company of the dead, where you’re most certainly headed’ (vv. 7-10 MSG). So, what are you waiting for? To graduate? To get married? To have children? To retire? Life is about the journey, not the destination! Your life is here and now, your family is here and now, your marriage is here and now, your career is here and now.

The journey takes place every day, and you can find meaning when you search for a greater purpose. You can find small joys every day if you have eyes of faith. Solomon recognised that ultimately we all end up at the same destination - the grave. The only difference lies in how much we enjoy the journey. Instead of obsessing over the things you can’t control, focus on what you can control and leave the rest to God. Phil Cooke writes: ‘I have to believe that God’s in control, and for me to always demand answers is to assume His role. I’ve decided to sit back and let Him be God and let me be me.’

That’s a philosophy we would do well to adopt!
Adapted from UCB, Word for Today.

Bryn has chosen the music this morning ‘In Everything Give Thanks’. Click on the picture to listen.