Making The Most Of Life
05 SEPTEMBER 2021 | PRAYER & PRAISE SERVICE
Rev Edmund De Souza
Scripture Passage: Ecclesiastes 9:1-12 (NIV)
WATCH | SERMON (VIDEO)
READ | SERMON NOTES
Summary | Regardless of who we are and how we live, we all share a common destiny - we will all one day die. However, while we are still on earth, the author of Ecclesiastes shares three tips on how we can make the most of life - enjoy life, seize life’s opportunities and prepare for life’s uncertainties.
1. Life is to be Enjoyed. (v.7-9) – God has given us life and it is therefore meant to be cherished and celebrated, whether it is to eat, drink or find satisfaction in our work (though not in an indulgent and sinful manner). Life is a gift and blessing which God has given us, and we should take the time to enjoy it with the people we love rather than focus on the darkness around us.
2. Life’s Opportunities are to be Seized. (v.10) – While we have life, we must give our best in whatever situation God has placed us in. But more than that, we should make time for God and involve Him in our endeavours so that we can really make our life count for Him.
3. Life Can Be Unpredictable. (v.1, 11-12) – We can make careful plans in life but we are not always in control, and things do not always fall neatly into place. As we make the most of life, we also have to prepare for the uncertainties of life, for example: a) Expect the unexpected; b) Don’t wait to repent; c) Save for the future; d) Trust in God’s mercies. No matter what comes our way, we know that God will be in control.
Our Prayer – Lord, you made this beautiful world for us to enjoy. You want us to live productive lives and shine for you. Though the future is uncertain, we know we can trust you. We give you thanks and praise and want to walk with You all the days of our lives on earth.
(Sermon notes by Desley Khew)
PONDER | REFLECTION QUESTIONS
1. As Christians we face the tension of seeking to live sacrificially for the Lord, yet enjoying God’s blessing at the same time. How do you deal with this tension?
2. God wants us to make the most of the life we have. Are there some things the Lord may want you to attend to?
3. Have you ever expected some good thing to happen to you but it turned out badly? How should we respond to these kinds of situations?