Every early morning before I get out of bed I set my will to the same decision and then say a short routine prayer. I have never been a morning person so that is a small miracle; the will to set a morning habit and the will to keep it. Then I write BDBD and meditate before I begin work. That too is a miracle for my morning body moves much more quickly than my morning brain.
Every evening when I get into bed I try to examine the day to find satisfaction in whatever I accomplished, set a few simple plans for tomorrow, and pray. The start and finish of the day in this way probably seems foolish to the person who does not love or fear God. Yet I have found that a person can do no better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in his work. This is from the hand of God for without him who can eat and find enjoyment (24,25)?
Solomon, as a lad started out life seeking God and his will. He finished the temple, married and started having children, became financially successful, and built a palace for himself and one for his wife. Then in mid-life, he decided to investigate the essence of life without fear and love of God. He indulged himself in everything mankind believes brings ultimate pleasure, continual fulfillment, and ever-increasing happiness. After years of living this way, he hated life because the work that is done “under the sun” was grievous to him (17). He hated all the things he had toiled for “under the sun” (18). His heart began to despair over all his toilsome labor “under the sun” (20).
I have been to many places and countries in the world. Some are well off and some are the poorest in the world. Most would say that I live in the most prosperous country in the world. Though that is true for some, for others it makes no impact on their existence. Whether well off or in need all seek to find how to escape troubles and live contented and happy. The worldly way takes hard work and sacrifices.
“What does a person get for all the toil and anxious striving with which they labor “under the sun” (22)? “All their days their work is pain and grief; even at night, their mind does not rest. This is meaningless (23).” For when “enough” is achieved death soon comes and all that was obtained to bring peace goes to another. “This too is meaningless and a great misfortune (21).”
A simple routine rooted in Christ is good. Jesus said at the last supper, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
