Reflections: I recommend joy

My morning devotions recently moved into the Old Testament book of Ecclesiastes. While that’s not a book people generally turn to for encouragement to start the day, the writer of the study guide pointed out that it has inspired considerable art, music and philosophy, sending my mind back many years to my sister singing along with the Byrds’ “Turn, Turn, Turn” on the radio. 

The writer of Ecclesiastes, referred to in some passages as “preacher,” is presumed by many scholars to be Solomon, who in spite of great wealth and even a supernatural gift of wisdom, still made plenty of bad choices. One of the first passages we looked at, though, surprised me; it was not one I recalled from pop culture or the limited number of times I’ve read Ecclesiastes. After several discourses on the futility of life’s pursuits, we find chapter 8, verse 15: “And I commend joy, for man has nothing better under the sun but to eat and drink and be joyful, for this will go with him in his toil through the days of his life that God has given him under the sun” (ESV). The context goes on to conclude that since there is so much about which we can do nothing, we might as well find joy in what we can do, even if that’s simply going about the necessary work God has given us. 

Moving into the New Testament for additional insight, we find joy listed as a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5), and the Apostle Paul’s admonition to “Rejoice evermore” (1 Thessalonians 5). A look at Paul’s circumstances, and those of his original readers, will show this does not imply happiness based on all things going well at all times. Rather, his admonishment is to remain faithful, even during difficulty or persecution, finding joy in Christ’s provision for salvation, the Holy Spirit’s comfort, and the hope of eternity with our Creator. 

Coincidentally (or not), a blog post by Janet Denison, also last week, candidly admitted being advised to cut back screen time, especially news, while recovering from a slight head injury; her doctor explained that the stress of negative input would slow healing. As a side benefit, she said she has slept much better and intends to continue the new habits. This has been my experience as well, since feeling prompted by the Holy Spirit to adopt similar limitations. Denison also cited author Stephen Covey’s description of “circles of influence,” in which he recommends narrowing our priorities to the areas where we can actually influence others or make a difference. This helps avoid the overload of futility such as the Ecclesiastes writer describes. 

Again, the stories of persecuted Christians worldwide can serve as inspiration. In circumstances ranging from being denied good jobs to actually risking their lives, they choose to find joy in their relationship with Jesus and their eternal hope. And with that joy in mind, they approach each day with thankfulness, determined to do God’s will. 

Choosing joy takes courage and focus, but with God’s help, it can be done. Rather than view our daily tasks as “futile” or “chasing after the wind,” we can turn our hearts toward God’s goodness, Jesus’ sacrifice and the opportunity to work “as unto the Lord” (Colossians 3), and join the Ecclesiastes “preacher” in saying, “I recommend joy!”