A Life to Live

Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, “I find no pleasure in them."

Ecclesiastes 12:1 (NIV)

Most people, from a very young age, place far greater importance on financial success and material achievements. They believe that these are the things that give them worth and earn them the respect of others. They completely forget that they will eventually reach a stage in life where they can no longer truly enjoy what they have accomplished. For, during their youth, they neglected their relationship with God. They do not think to seek the salvation He has offered them through Jesus Christ. To them, every day represents a new opportunity to succeed by acquiring the very best the world has to offer.

As they approach their sixties, their perspective begins to shift. They build up their retirement savings and follow strict diets in the hope of securing better days ahead. They even go so far as to take medication to prolong their lives and preserve their health well into their eighties and beyond. Worries then begin to invade their thoughts. Yet, those who dedicate themselves to the service of God and strive to be pleasing in His sight harbor none of these worries. They entrust themselves to the loving care of the Lord, who will never fail to keep His promises.

It is not wrong to enjoy the days of one's youth. However, be aware that there is a limit. God gave you life, and He expects you to enjoy it to the fullest; yet, it is the way in which you use it that will determine its ultimate outcome. Every morning upon waking, remind yourself that this day is a gift from God. Dedicate each day to serving Him and walking in His ways. Place the life He has given you at His disposal, and He will grant you not only what you need to live in peace, but He will also prolong your days according to His will.

May the grace and peace of God be with you.