“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 in the sight of your eyes; but know that for all these God will bring you into judgment. Therefore remove sorrow from your heart, and put away evil from your flesh, for childhood and youth are vanity” ( Ecclesiastes 11:9-10).
This text clearly indicates God’s expectation and desire that we enjoy our time here on the earth. He does not require on principle for us to suffer. In this particular context, He shows that the times of our youth are to be greatly treasured. Follow your passions and interests, and have fun!
However, consider this one statement of warning. “But know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment.” This establishes two important truths. First, God expects faithfulness to Him above all things. Second, you don’t have to be worldly to enjoy your life on the earth. This is the devil’s lie. The end of sin is destruction and death, not fun and frolic!
There is no value in sowing your wild oats, or following your own heart into sin. A life lived without God is a life of vanity and ruin. God does not want that for you in this life or in eternity! Serving God both brings joy and is “man’s all” (12:13).
