God's Approval

Go, eat your bread with enjoyment, and drink your wine with a merry heart; for God has long ago approved what you do. Ecclesiastes 9: 7 NRSV

After searching for knowledge and having the ability to see our lives as futile, it really is a relief to come across this verse. Ecclesiastes may be saying that there is no point to our lives but at least we have God's approval to have contentment and happiness. Even if it is fleeting, it is ours to take part in.

Why should we be depressed? Why mope about and worry over the small stuff? God wants us to enjoy life!

So, don't let the reading of Ecclesiastes get you down. Put down your bible, call up some friends and/or family and sit down at a meal together. Enjoy each others' company and the good food and drink before you.

Dear Heavenly Father; We come before you as you children. We have gained such knowledge and wisdom. We understand so much about the world around us and we think we know quite a bit about you as well. Often what we know has made us bitter or untrusting. We have become hardened and emotionless in our work and our homes. Our hearts are heavy and burdened. We have easily succumbed to hopelessness and depression. Nothing makes sense anymore. We are lost and have no purpose. How come you continue to love us? We are not very lovable. You still want us to enjoy life, though. You still want us to enjoy our relationships. Help us this very day to simply savor what is before us on the table and the ones who are with us. Thank you, Lord, for your joy in our hearts. In Jesus' holy name we pray. Amen.

Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims