Eat, drink and be merry

Eat, drink and be merry

Scripture:

There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God. Ecclesiastes 2:24

Observation:

There is a popular saying “Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we die”. Perhaps the saying was derived from Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes here. In a way, the perception given is that men is born, lives and then dies and disappears into the dust, after experiencing only a few short years on the earth. However, when we read the whole of Scripture, we know that this life is only just the beginning, and eternity beckons us beyond this life, for better or for worse. Deep down inside, each of us can’t help but sense that there will be a judgment of our deeds one day, and that wisdom stops us from just doing whatever we want according to our whims and fancies.

Hence, the concept of eat, drink and be merry with the idea of gorging ourselves, getting drunk and indulging in revelry is not what Solomon intends. Rather, it means learning to enjoy the simple pleasure of lives – enjoying our simple food, appreciating the water that we drink, and learning to enjoy the work and responsibilities that have been given us, which we often take for granted. Instead of complaining and wishing for better pay, better benefits, better bosses, we should thank God for the work that we have, and serve to our best ability humbly. If we have the opportunity to move on to something better, do so, but in the mean time, wherever we work, we should be happy and enjoy the good in our labor as Solomon says. Likewise, in our responsibility to our families, we should learn to appreciate the chores that we have and thank God.

Application:

Learn to savor and enjoy our food and even a glass of clean water. Be thankful for the work and responsibilities that we have and serve to our best ability.

Prayer:

Thank You, Lord for the food and drink and work that I have each day. Help me appreciate with joy all You have given me and serve You humbly. In Jesus name, Amen.