Scripture: So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun. Ecclesiastes 8:15
Observation: The teacher tells us to eat and drink and be glad. If we do this - enjoy the basic pleasures of life - then we will have joy even in our toil and struggles.
This is from a person who has examined all things related to wisdom in an effort to logically find and achieve wisdom. He has determined wisdom cannot be fully achieved, and thus has even simply examined the patterns and logic of the world to attempt to find insight about wisdom. As a result, his is simply recommending that everyone should enjoy the simple things in life. We should enjoy ... a good meal, a nice glass of wine, the company of our wife. If we can simply be happy with the day-to-day things God has given us, including our 'toil' or work, we will find true joy in life.
Application: As I have been going through training at work, I have been asked to create a principle I will live by. The key words of that principle are "humility", "peace", and "joy". These are things I absolutely desire, and that I absolutely struggle with. Even in restful times, I cannot find peace. Even in great experiences, I cannot find joy. Even in lowly states, I struggle with humility.
Joy is a choice, and it seems the teacher would equate it with contentment. I should take joy in what I have ... which of course is plenty, as I have been blessed far beyond what I deserve. When I relax, I should find joy in the chance to relax. When I have dinner with my wife, I should find joy in the meal and conversation.
This is not just a standard kind of functional comfort in the situation, but heavenly joy ... the understanding that God has given to me the blessing of the simple pleasures, sustenance, and company around me, and I should truly and consciously lean into that as God's blessing. I will find joy - true joy - when I understand that every little element of my life is a gift from God.
Prayer: Abba, you have blessed me and cared for me in all circumstances. I see your hand in every element of my life, and especially in the wonderful little things around me. I have so much from you. I will lean into the joy you have provided into my life this day. Thank you so much for your love, my Lord and my God. Amen.
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