Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes. But know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment. Ecclesiastes 11:9
I continue my study of Ecclesiastes using the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for this book. My focus today is an unassisted review of the the first division of the text Ecclesiastes 11:7-12:14, which is explored in the commentary chapter entitled Aging Is Meaningless without Jesus. The commentary describes the first division as 11:7-10 with this division entitled Enjoy Life as God Intended. V7 describes how God intends for us to enjoy His creation, including the sun, sunrise, sunset and the evening skies. V8 shares how God wants us to rejoice in all the years of our lives, but we are reminded that our lives will be full of darkness, challenges, and pain - this is the human experience since the Fall. At the back end of this verse, Solomon (without the knowledge of everlasting life with Jesus) states that this is vanity - our lives are devoid meaning, so you might as well enjoy your life when you can (i.e. in your youth). V9a and b shares how we should enjoy our youth when we are likely to have youthful looks, good health, etc. V9c shares how ultimately God will judge your life so whatever we do, be mindful of pleasing Him, living in reverent fear of how He is in control and if we don't please Him, we are subject to His wrath. V10 shares how we should not be vexed (or annoyed, irritated, or troubled) by the meaninglessness of youth and the effects of aging.
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who gives life, now to the full and for eternity. Thank You Jesus for saving a place for me in Heaven. I am not deserving of such a gift - the greatest gift of all time. My sin is great and it continues. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself and wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
