18. Then I realized that it is good and proper for a man to eat and drink, and to find satisfaction in his toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given him-- for this is his lot. 19. Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work-- this is a gift of God. 20. He seldom reflects on the days of his life, because God keeps him occupied with gladness of heart.
Solomon sought contentment in worldly things and was disappointed. Whatever diversion it allowed passed into an unsettled mind and heart. He tells his subjects that discovering contentment is found in wealth that is beyond riches and gold. The focus of real wealth is found in faith in God's provisions.
I was visiting with a lady who was shut-in and asked her how she was doing. She looked at me and smiled. "Great, I was able to get up today and dress myself. I have something to eat, and a bed to sleep in." We chuckled.
That statement caused me to think of my feeble complaints. I was frustrated for not having enough money to purchase a vehicle I couldn’t afford. I was complaining about the bills. I realized after my conversation with the lady that I never once looked at what I had, only what I wanted that I didn't have.
I never thanked God for a good night’s sleep. I never thanked God for having a bed, or roof or food each day. She seemed grateful for what I took for granted.
If you love the Lord you'll enjoy your day, because God is the source of our pleasure and wealth. If we are misguided in thinking we have made our own money and we have earned our own riches then we have bankrupted the spiritual lesson of joy. We think we deserve it, when it is really an act of God's grace. We can become prideful instead of thankful.
God uses our financial resources to teach us how to depend on Him for our true necessities. We can delight in our wealth when our needs, instead of our wants, are met in Christ.
If Christians can experience times of real fellowship with the Lord in genuine worship and prayer, they will clearly see the great joy that comes from God Himself. The delight is in the giver of all good gifts and the focus is on the giver not the gift.
Reflection: Phil 4:19 “And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus”. Give thanks for every good thing God has given you.
Prayer: Lord, help me to make investments for eternity which is forever and thereby, to know that contentment comes from within, not from what is on the outside. I want to discover the true wealth that is only found in You
