Enjoying the Present
God keeps such people so busy enjoying life that they take no time to brood over the past. Ecclesiastes 5:20 NLT
In chapters 4 through 8 of the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon presents us with a series of reflections on life, relationships, and how to manage our emotions. Sometimes, people lose their peace because they live trapped in the painful memories of yesterday, but God’s will is that we learn to live fully in today. Biblical wisdom teaches us that God desires to give us a life so full of purpose and joy that we have no time left to brood over the past.
- Brooding over the past ruins the present If we keep brooding over the unpleasant things that happened to us yesterday, or in the past months and years, it is highly likely that we will not enjoy our day today. Insisting on remembering the negative things of the past will ruin our present.
- Being busy enjoying life On the other hand, it is true that if we spend today busy enjoying life, then we will have neither the time nor the desire to keep remembering the past. Keeping our attention and effort on the blessings we have right in front of us displaces any room for yesterday’s sadness.
- Focusing on all the good things We must ask God for the grace to focus on all the good things He has for us and our family today. By meditating on this, we realize that His benefits are many and that He continually gives us many good things. The result of this attitude is recognizing how blessed we are and living entirely grateful to the Lord.
- Controlling our character In our daily walk, we will encounter frustrating situations that could make us fall into old bitterness, but the Bible instructs that we must control our character. Frequent anger is the hallmark of fools, and as children of God, we must not have that hallmark in our lives.
- Moving forward together Finally, by letting go of the past and living the present with a good character, we can relate better to others, as Ecclesiastes affirms that two are better than one. When we overcome our differences and work together, we can achieve more and multiply our efforts.
Leaving the past behind is not always easy, but when we focus on the blessings that God pours out on us daily, our entire outlook changes. Living the present with gratitude, controlling our character so as not to fall into foolishness, and walking accompanied by good relationships are sure steps toward an abundant life. Let us accept the gift of today, thanking the Lord for His countless favors, and allow Him to keep us so busy enjoying His goodness that the pains of yesterday simply lose their power.
God keeps such people so busy enjoying life that they take no time to brood over the past. Ecclesiastes 5:20 NLT
Think About It:
- What memory or failure from the past are you constantly brooding over that is preventing you from enjoying your day today?
- Are you allowing frustration to control you and reflect anger, which is the hallmark of fools?
- Make a list today of five benefits and good things that God has continually given you to fill your mind with gratitude.