January 31, 2023
Light is sweet, and it is pleasant for the eyes to see the sun. So if a person lives many years, let him rejoice in them all; but let him remember that the days of darkness will be many. All that comes is vanity. Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes. But know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment. Remove vexation from your heart, and put away pain from your body, for youth and the dawn of life are vanity. (Ecclesiastes 11:7-10).
Today’s Scripture from (Ecclesiastes 11: 7-10) brings back the memories of being young, especially as a young Christian committed to following Christ. We see Solomon understood and speaks of both the joys and sorrows of the heart of a young believer.
I remember the moment I truly gave my heart to Jesus; it was a remarkable moment that continued as the Holy Spirit filled my heart with love and devotion to Christ. Unfortunately, later came the reality of my (weak) flesh when temptations came. Every young Christian has had these experiences. It could be in a special relationship when temptation is raging or when the need to be accepted threatens to drive us into compromise. It is at these moments when the heart is filled with sorrow.
When this happens, (Ecclesiastes 11: 9) instructs us to follow our cheering heart – the heart that is cheering your relationship and commitment to the Lord Jesus, “Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes.” Solomon insists that we walk in the ways of the cheering heart and the insight the cheering heart gives our eyes.
You are probably saying, ‘it is not easy when two opposites are demanding control over your heart.’ Sometimes the decision is easy, but it can be the most difficult challenge in your life as a young Christian. The promise is sure though if you order sorry away, it will leave you, and the cheering will return, for you have won yet another victory and decided again to follow Christ as the Lord of your life.
Friends, our Spirit is the deepest part of us. It is the engine of our lives; it is not always seen but always felt, and it cheers us on in the ways of Christ. It inspires confident living, directs our decisions, and tells us to keep running when we want to stop. The cheering of the Spirit keeps us focused on what matters. So do not be distracted by distractions; keep choosing Christ over your life. Would you Pray with me:
Dear Heavenly Father, let Your Spirit speak wisdom and guidance over my life today. You promised a Comforter Who would be with me every step of the way to guide me and supply what I needed. Be with me, Father. Help me speak the right words, make the right choices, and choose the right opportunities. Making decisions can be confusing. Holy Spirit, do not allow me to make mistakes. Help me determine which direction will open the right doors and cause productive relationships to flourish. I ask these things in Your Precious Name, Amen.
Encouraging Words from Charles Spurgeon: A rejoicing heart soon makes a praising tongue.
God Bless you, Friends, and have a Blessed Day <><
Thoughts by Randall Stapleton is a Daily Devotion brought to you by The Bridge - Learn more at https://wearethebridge.org
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