Why Life Feels Beautiful and Broken | Ecclesiastes 11:7-8

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We are approaching the end of Ecclesiastes, and the Gospel of Mark is next. Go to the website and grab the Scriptural Journal for this study so you can study along with us. If you are a donor who gives $35/month or more, you will receive one of these for free each time we begin a new study, as long as we have your current mailing address. You also get a few more benefits by becoming a monthly or annual donor, like video access to the website, and you can see all those benefits at the link in the description today. Either way, get your Scripture Journal now so you can take notes and follow along.

Today, we’re looking at Ecclesiastes 11:7-8:

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. — Ecclesiastes 11:7-8

Life is a gift. Solomon reminds us to enjoy it—to see the light, feel the warmth, and enjoy the good days. There’s something sacred about the simplicity of a sunrise, a shared meal, or a laugh with a friend. These are glimpses of God’s goodness in a world that often feels heavy.

But Solomon adds a sobering reminder: "The days of darkness will be many." Life has darkness. Seasons of loss. Moments of grief. Times when the light isn’t so visible. And we shouldn’t be surprised when they come.

Still, the contrast makes the sun sweeter. The joy of life isn’t found in pretending the dark days don’t exist—but in choosing to rejoice while we can. Not in a shallow, Instagram-worthy way—but in a deep, grounded gratitude that sees every moment as grace.

The call here is to live with balance. Rejoice fully. Remember frankly. Don’t cling to the delusion that life will always be easy. But don’t grow so cynical that you miss the beauty right before you.

Savor the good gifts of God today. And who prepare your hearts to trust God when the shadows fall tomorrow.

#LifeIsAGift, #Ecclesiastes11, #DailyDevotional

ASK THIS:

1. What simple joys has God placed in your life recently?
2. How do you respond when the dark days come?
3. In what ways can you practice grounded gratitude today?
4. Are you living with a healthy balance of rejoicing and remembering?

DO THIS:

Today, pause and savor one good gift from God—a sunrise, a smile, or a moment of stillness.

PRAY THIS:

Father, help me rejoice in the light and prepare my heart for the shadows. Teach me to see each moment as grace from You. Amen.

PLAY THIS:

Fountains + Came To My Rescue.