Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes 3:13,  “also that everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all his toil—this is God’s gift to man.” 

William Sangster, a British Methodist minister, learned he had progressive muscular atrophy and couldn't recover. He then crafted four life resolutions.

1. I will never complain
2. I will keep the home bright
3. I will count my blessings 
4. I will try to turn it (progressive muscular atrophy) to gain

Sangster likely considered Solomon's approach to life, which he echoes. The song 'Don’t worry—be happy” isn't what Solomon recommends; he's encouraging faith in God. Faith is only as strong as its object. Ask yourself: is your faith in the Government or in God? I haven’t perfected this yet, but I know I should pray for both sides of the aisle, as God commands. We’ve become a nation of complainers when the opposing party is in power, haven’t we? 

As I grow older, having added another year to my life this month, I find myself loosening my hold on worldly possessions—except for people. Why is that? It’s because, ultimately, what matters most is not material things, but where the souls of men and women will spend eternity. 

After trusting Jesus for salvation, we start preparing for our eternal home. Thomas Watson, a Puritan pastor, said, “Eternity to the godly is a day with no sunset; to the wicked, it is a night with no sunrise.” 

For us, the right attitude is reflected in Solomon's words in verse 14: “I perceived that whatever God does endures forever; nothing can be added to it, nor anything taken from it. God has done it, so that people fear before him.” 

My fear before Him is not a cringing dread like before a harsh taskmaster, but rather a submission like an obedient child to their loving parents. If we fear God, we won’t need to fear anything else—He’s watching out for you, He’s got your back!

Seeking to Walk in Fear,

Gene