Did you know that it’s OK to enjoy your life and the blessings that God has given you? I know that sounds like a silly question, but it feels like we might need a reminder of that in the midst of everything going on around us.

Each day feels like it brings a hundred new things that we can be worried about, be upset about, and be concerned about that it will bring everything crashing down.

We are surrounded by stories, posts and conversations all pointing fingers at what the greatest threat to us is. Pessimism and anxiety strive to rule the day.

But there is an aspect of being a Christian that many of us have forgotten about. It is a blessing that we have lost in the chaos of our time. It is OK to be happy and be enjoying your life!

The book of Ecclesiastes is one that many consider to be on the depressing side, but I have always found it to be rather uplifting.

In chapter 9, Solomon writes about how regardless of how we live our lives, we will all die and have our earthly lives come to an end.

This life is temporary, but for those who have faith in God, that’s perfectly OK. Instead of being a depressing thought, it becomes a freeing one!

We don’t need wealth or to toil our lives away trying to make every cent possible. We don’t need to sacrifice everything to attempt to rise to notoriety and fame.

We don’t need to be consumed about world events and worried sick about what might be the next thing to cause us to be sick. Solomon says all those attempts are foolish and in vain. Why chase what fades, rots and is left behind in this world when we die? Why worry about the things that are only temporary?

Instead, Solomon advises, “Go then, eat your bread in happiness, and drink your wine with a cheerful heart; for God has already approved your works. See that your clothes are white all the time, and that there is no lack of oil on your head. Enjoy life with the wife whom you love all the days of your futile life which He has given you under the sun …”

Solomon is advising us to go and enjoy the blessings that God has given us with a cheerful heart because God knows our heart is for Him! As Christians who have put our faith in Christ and who are striving to stay obedient and in the will of God, we have an eternal hope and an eternal home that awaits us.

No matter what may come our way and no matter what circumstances and situations befall us, we can enjoy the day that God has given us and the relationships and provisions He has supplied.

I know that there are very real issues around us that need to be dealt with. We can’t shrug off all responsibility or lead our lives carelessly and without wisdom.

Our earthly and temporary problems don’t need to consume us or ruin our days though. God is pouring out blessings, grace, mercy and love upon us every single day. Smile today and laugh. Spend time talking to a friend. Savor the taste of your next meal. Cling to our eternal promise in Christ and enjoy each day as God gives us as we live it out for His glory.

People’s EC Church is located at 216 Wagner St., Lehighton.