“Behold, what I have seen to be good and fitting is to eat and drink and find enjoyment[a] in all the toil with which one toils under the sun the few days of his life that God has given him, for this is his lot.” Ecclesiastes 5:18
Being a person of faith is not only about salvation and following God’s Word. It is not only about forgiveness and eternal life. It’s also about life here and being joyful.
This quote from Ecclesiastes reminds us that we should find joy in our daily living - not just passively take joy but “find enjoyment.” A sergeant I knew told the soldiers to “Hunt the good stuff” and not to focus on the negatives. That was part of a total soldier wellness thing the Army was doing. Well, SFC Patterson was right.
God wants us to hunt the good stuff also and to enjoy our time in this world, filled with all its toils. God made the world and He made it good. He sent His son to redeem it. It’s a good place so “Hunt the good stuff” - like dog smudges on steamy windows and hearts drawn by loving wives.
Life is too short to be dour, sour, resentful, angry, bitter, or so serious. So take a moment to stop and smell the roses today - or the crips leaves. They are a gift from God.
Prayer: Lord God, I give you thanks for this day and for the night of sleep. Let me revel in the joys of this day. Help me to take a moment and hunt the good stuff. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.