God Desires Us Make Most of Life
Backgrounder to Ecclesiastes 7-12:
Thus far the preacher has been
concentrating mainly on problems
of life without seeking explanation.
But the deeper he probes life’s
patterns and perplexities, the more
conclusive becomes the evidence
that points him to the solution:
and that is Fear God. When wisdom
turns to vanity, fear God (Eccl 7:18).
When God’s ways seem uncertain,
fear God (8:12-13). When all is
said and done, fear God (12:13),
for this is the whole duty of man.
Lord, we’ll Make the Most of Life:
Go, Eat your bread with joy, and
drink your wine with a cheerful
heart; for God has already
accepted your works. Let your
garments be always white (with
purity) and let your head not lack
(the) oil (of gladness) (Ecc 9:7-8).
Whatever your hand finds to do,
do it with (all) Your might; for
there is no work…in the grave(v10)
The race is not to the swift,
nor the battle to the strong…
nor riches to men of understanding,
nor favour to men of skill;
but time and chance happens
to them all (Ecclesiastes 9:11).
Lord, thanks for the gift of working
& for the blessings You’ve bestowed
upon my brethren and their families.
Impress on them O Holy Spirit to go
forth with gladness in their hearts.
May they enjoy their meals and time
of joy together, knowing that You’ve
approved and blessed their efforts.
Grant them a grateful heart & help
them recognize Yr hand in their lives.
May they express gratitude for all
that they have. In Jesus’ name,Amen
Lord, Give me strength and ability
to work with all my might on all
that You have assigned me to do.
Use up Lord my full capacity for
Your glory while I am here on earth.
Give me Lord eternal perspective
on how I invest my time each day.
Keep me from wasting opportunities
You give me this week to share You
with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Lord, I realise that the race of
faith is not a short sprint but rather
a long race that requires endurance.
And Ecclesiastes 9:11 wisely points
out the race is not to the swift, nor
the battle to the strong. So Lord,
help me to press on and lay aside
every weight to finish well the race.
And grant me strength so that I can
run the race with endurance. Amen.