Priorities

Ecclesiastes describes what seems like the ideal life. The writer, the “Preacher,” lived in leisure, as servants took care of his every need. It was a life of abundance with great possessions, silver, gold, and treasures. There was glorious music, and many luxuries and comforts.

The Preacher held nothing back, yielding to his desires and experiencing any possible pleasure: “Whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them. I did not withhold my heart from any pleasure.” Having worked hard, he felt this was his “reward” for all he had done. But after he accumulated these things, he realized that
it all was “vanity and grasping for
the wind.” There were temporary pleasures, but no lasting satisfaction.

How many people have engaged in a similar pursuit? How many kinds of “delights” do men and women seek in an effort to get the most out of life, and find pleasure and fulfillment?

The Bible gives us a different perspective on the “things” of life. The problem is our priorities, for the Preacher in Ecclesiastes pursued things and experiences without God.

The Bible reminds us that God “delights” to bless us and meet every need. The abundance He provides results when we have the right priorities, when we seek first His Kingdom (Matthew 6:33), and when we are confident He will provide all we need, and give us the ability to enjoy these blessings (Ecclesiastes 5:19).

Today, remember to focus on serving God. Seek first His Kingdom, having faith to believe that He will bless you abundantly, as you seek to serve and please Him.