Ecclesiastes
This is an evil in all that is done under the sun: that one thing happens to all. Truly the hearts of the sons of men are full of evil; madness is in their hearts while they live, and after that they go to the dead. … Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.” Ecclesiastes 9:3,10 (Read 9:1-10)
The brevity of life causes people to go crazy trying to get the things of this world. So-called “normal” people insanely reject what is good and right to pursue the evils of this world. Even though they know “the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, [they] not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.” (Rom. 1:32) Don’t be lured in by them. “How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?” (Rom. 6:2)
What, then, should we do with our earthly lives? “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.” Take each opportunity that God sets before you and address it with your might. Then, you will be able to enjoy the fruit of your labor: bread, wine, and oil. Also, “live joyfully with the wife whom you love.” Content with the simple gifts of God, we will not madly pursue the worthless things of this world.
Such is our physical life on this planet. As for our spiritual life, Solomon later says, “Then the dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it.” (Eccl. 12:7) Cleansed in Jesus' blood, we will soar to the side of the Creator. There we will find peace and joy as we await the resurrection of our glorified bodies.
Lord God, help us to be careful how we walk, “not as unwise men, but as wise, making the most of our time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15) Hear us for Jesus' sake. Amen.