“So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this world than to eat, drink, and enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives them under the sun.” 

Ecclesiastes 8:15 NLT

Has a single word ever convicted you? Maybe it was your “Word of the Year?” Predominantly, my annual words have been topics or scripture-based commands by which the Holy Spirit convicted me. Recently, I was humbled when the Lord convicted me of “wait” and “together” not just one, but two years in a row. For two years I was convicted to wait on the Lord’s timing and provisions for specific desires in my prayer life, as well as become closer with my husband and rely on his spiritual leadership. If I have somehow made the last two sentences sound like this was a walk in the park, I have been nothing short of misleading.

This year, “fun” has been stamped on my heart. In our “wait” and anticipation of God’s provision—house, work, finances, mended relationships, etc.—I took myself and our situations too seriously. There were times when I forgot to have fun.

Nothing in God’s Word is happenstance, therefore, it is no coincidence that Solomon encourages joy in a chapter that focuses primarily on wisdom and timing. There is wisdom in remembering: God is in control, He knows of our deepest desires, and we can have joy and FUN trusting that He knows what is best.

Father, thank You for loving us so much that You not only provide and protect us, but Your word encourages us to take delight and have fun while trusting in You. Help me to let go of situations that I cannot control, to let go of the desire to always be right or look good to others. Help me find more freedom and glorying fun in being Your child, even in the waiting. Amen.

Taylor Newton