| Photo by Todd Quakenbush on Unsplash
King Solomon shares his experience concerning money, wealth, and things only money can buy. He was the richest man of that time, yet he realized that things would never satisfy him!
He writes: “We all come to the end of our lives as naked and empty-handed as on the day we were born. We can’t take our riches with us.” Ecclesiastes 5:15
“Even so I have noticed one thing, at least, that is good. It is good for people to eat, drink and enjoy their work under the sun during the short life that God has given them, and to accept their lot in life. And it is a good thing to receive wealth from God and the good health to enjoy it. To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life – this is indeed a gift from God. God keeps such people so busy enjoying life that they take not time to brood over the past.” Ecclesiastes 5:18-20
King Solomon reminds us of the meaningless results of money, wealth, and possessions.
- We came into the world naked and with nothing, and this is the same way that we are going to leave this world. We cannot bring anything with us when we die. When you think about it, we must enjoy life daily and appreciate God’s blessings.
- We need to enjoy life daily! Enjoy our family, work, possessions, and money. Paul said, “We need to learn the secret of being content, in whatever state I find myself.” How many people are trying to make a life, but they are not really living? They are living for the next paycheck, new house, or big promotion at work. They are living for things instead of living for God and people!
- Everything we receive in life is a gift from God! We do not own anything! We are only stewards of the gifts that God has given to us. Everything we receive is a gift. Life is a gift, salvation is a gift, faith is a gift, and ministry is a gift. Marriage is a gift from God, and our children are a gift from God. (Remember our children are a gift from God because they belong to Him.) Our jobs are a gift from God, and our homes are a gift from God. When we realize that every perfect gift comes from the Father above, we recognize what is essential in life!
- Enjoy life! Life is short; when we enjoy our lives because of Jesus, we have no time to brood over the past. We cannot change the past, the mistakes and regrets of yesterday. So let it go, and begin to enjoy life today!
Think about this verse today:
“Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am living in the land of the living.”
That is something to enjoy as a follower of Jesus!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Pastor Ronald Squibb has been the International Christian Church (ICC) Lead Senior Pastor at Staten Island, New York, since 2011. He draws many experiences from his over 40 years as a pastor and significant emotional life experiences.
His new book, Following the Journey with Jesus, which he co-authored with Daniel McNaughton, was recently published and is getting rave reviews. His daily devotional appears in this publication.
