“A man can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in his work. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?” Eccl. 2:24-25
The world tells us, “If it feels good, do it." We sometimes dream if only I could just earn enough money to fulfill my dream, then I would have pleasure. Solomon would say, "Don't go to the trouble."
What is the Christian supposed to do in this world? Ought he to deny himself of any worldly pleasures? My Amish neighbors have a very strict definition of what is worldly and pleasurable. They are against any color other than black, grey, blue or white. No jewelry, no fine hats. What is worldly?
There are groups that look at any pleasure as of the devil. Is it the pursuit of card-playing, dancing, movies, drinking, and smoking? Is it having a second house or latest style of automobile?
No, for you see Solomon uses a phrase in this book, "under heaven" or "under the sun". This king was looking under the heavens to find happiness without God. Heb. 12:2 "Jesus endured the cross for the joy that was set before Him."
“The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy him forever.” The greater relationship that gives us pleasure is found in our relationship with God Himself. This does not reduce God to a key that unlocks the treasures of gold, silver, and cheap thrills, but rather it changes our hearts so God will be our joy.
Dr. John Piper says in his book, “Desiring God”, “We do not believe Jesus when he says there is more blessedness, more joy, more lasting pleasure in life devoted to God first and then helping others than there is in a life devoted to our material comfort."
Solomon discovers that pleasure is obtained in the presence of God. So often other fleeting pleasures push God out of the picture. These things may not be wrong in and of themselves, but when we spend more time with these things and less time with God, we become unfulfilled. Christian pleasure does not mean that God is a means to help us get worldly pleasure, as some people preach, but pleasure is in God Himself. "The Almighty will be your gold and silver to you.” (Job 22:25)
In the academy award winning movie, “Chariots of Fire”, Eric Liddell raced in the Olympics. As a committed Christian he believed God made him fast. He said that he felt the presence of God in his running and for him it was joy that in his running he might honor God. When the Olympic race came on the Sabbath, Eric Liddell was willing to give up the crown for his Sabbath was devoted to God. He would serve the King of Kings rather than the King of Britain.
Application: Worldliness therefore is life that is not under the Lordship of Jesus. It is an attitude of one’s heart. Not in what we do but why we do it. Ponder this.
Prayer: Lord, may You, God Almighty, be my gold and silver.
