I perceived that there is nothing better for them than to be joyful and to do good as long as they live; Ecclesiastes 3:12 ESV
When most people think of Ecclesiastes 3, they immediately go to the “a time for everything” passage. These first few verses remind us that there are seasons – some are full of joy, some full of pain and some can be mundane or toilsome. But when King Solomon gets to verse 12, there is a reminder that through all of the seasons there is purpose and that how we walk through the seasons is a choice.
Every day is a gift. The condition of the day does not determine its value, its potential, its belonging.
The Psalmist declares, “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24)
When we see the day through the right lens, it helps us traverse the sometimes difficult terrain of life. Joy is a choice, to do good is a choice, to do these daily – as long as you live – is a choice. I choose to not let the feelings a day brings to dictate my faith in my great God. First and foremost, I know today is HIS and so I can be glad in it!
Today, you have a choice to make – how you respond to it, how you lean into, what you get out of it, who you acknowledge in it. Here’s a few questions you can ask to help you make the most of your day…
- Who caused the sun to rise, the birds to sing, the breath in my lungs? – this helps us recognize God’s greatness
- Who in my life could use an encouragement today, who can I serve? – this helps us see beyond our difficulty and serve someone else’s
- What has God done in my life in the past that I can hold on to today? – this helps us remember God is good and life will get better
- What is one thing I can do today to make a difference for my tomorrow? – this helps us focus on finding purpose in today
Don’t waste today. It is a gift!