Solomon’s Practical Counsel
Ecclesiastes 7:15 - 8:17
“So, I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this world than to eat, drink and enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives them under the sun.” - Ecclesiastes 8:15
What gives us contentment in this life? Is it the worldly pleasures that are temporal? …Here today and gone tomorrow? Or is it something else? The Apostle James says in 1:17 of his Epistle that “every good and perfect gift is from above (God)”. I mention this because Solomon is in effect advocating the joy of life by saying to “eat, drink and enjoy life”. If every good and perfect gift comes from the maker of heaven and earth, then we should utilize all the things that God has given us. This doesn’t mean we should misuse or abuse them. Doing anything in excess is not a good thing. So, when you eat, enjoy your meal, but don’t be glutenous. When you drink, do not drink to get drunk, for these things are not pleasing to the Lord.
Having fun is not reserved for those who are worldly. It all depends on one’s definition of fun. And it doesn’t have to be a specific thing, but rather can be a whole variety of things. We all have individual likes and dislikes. Many of the things that are gifts from God are meant to provide enjoyment for the believer. So many people who are not Christians naturally assume that “religious” people abstain from pleasure and fun, however, nothing could be further from the truth. Worldly people seem to believe that pleasure and fun only come thru frivolous events. Getting as close to the edge of the ledge as possible without falling. The consequences from such events have the potential for disaster.
We can relax and enjoy those things that God provides as he has intended. We are to realize that our work is God-given, our food and drink is God-given, and the subsequent joy is also God-given. God wishes for us not to be burdened with anxiety, worrying about this and that. All good things come from God … we must realize this and in seeking his kingdom first and foremost, we can rest in the enjoyment that comes from pleasing the Father. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
Resources: Expositor’s Bible Commentary: Old Testament
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