JUN 8

Ecclesiastes 9:9-10
Memorise Ecclesiastes 9:10
“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might”

Thirdly, in verse 9, Solomon encourages all of us to enjoy the sanctity of marriage, and to enjoy the wife (note, singular) whom one loves. This is God’s gift to man whilst he is on earth, that he would enjoy the companionship and joy that a healthy family life would bring. Implied in this is also the warning against the sins of adultery, envy and lust. Only your wife whom you love would be the one that satisfies you, and not an adulterous relationship, or any sins related to fornication (lust, pornography, prostitution etc.). Note however, that this marriage relationship is only one that we have whilst we are here on earth, for it is given under the sun and only for our days of vanity. It is our portion in this life, and what God has given us to enjoy and provide companionship in our journey through life. Christ also taught, that in our resurrection, we “neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven” (Matthew 22:30). Nonetheless while we are yet on earth, we enjoy the blessings of a godly relationship, in love, fidelity and morality.

Finally, verse 10 exhorts us to enjoy the privilege of labour, and to do it well, for this also is the will of God. So whatever work that God has given us to do, we do it with all our might, for again labour is an activity which we can only have whilst we are here on earth. Beyond that, in the grave we will have no more opportunity to do so. Therefore every task that has been set before us is indeed a privilege that we have, and we must never waste our time away in laziness or procrastination. Instead we must face it with vigour, zeal and enthusiasm, knowing that we are doing it all as unto the Lord.

Basically what Solomon is telling us is that the elements to fulfilment and contentment are really right before our eyes. We do not need to keep looking around or outside to be happy. God has given us more than sufficient for us in this life to be able to live joyfully. As our sovereign God He is in control of all things, and in order to live life right, we must simply submit to His sovereign will.

Thought: Do I consider the labours of school work as a privilege from the Lord?
Prayer: Lord, help me to seize every opportunity I have to serve Thee, honour Thee and obey Thee with my life.