Ecclesiastes 11:9-10

Start now!

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. ~ Ecclesiastes 11:9

One of the greatest desires of my heart is to encourage others not to waste their lives chasing after what the world says is important. I especially want to encourage young people, those just stepping into adulthood, to get the plan now, to learn early how to hear and follow the call of God on their lives. But if you’re older and just now figuring this out, I have good news: it’s not too late!

It took me years to figure this out. I thought I had started out following God’s plan, but in reality, I was chasing after my own selfish desires. It didn’t take long before I found myself deep in a pit of deception and a pit I couldn’t climb out of on my own.

Thank goodness, when I cried out, my heavenly Father answered. And He will answer you too. If you find yourself stuck in regret, distraction, or disillusionment, call out to Him. His arms are always open.

Ecclesiastes 11:9-10 reminds us that God wants us to rejoice and live with passion. He made us to dream, to move, to experience the beauty of life. But He also calls us to live with eternity in mind, knowing that everything we choose today will echo into forever. It’s a beautiful balance: to enjoy life fully while walking carefully with God at the center.

Here are some ways you can apply this principle in your life:

1. Rejoice today!
   Thank God for the season you’re in. Embrace the opportunities, energy, and dreams He has placed in your heart.
2. Seek God’s wisdom for your dreams.
   Ask Him daily to guide your passions and plans according to His purpose.
3. Stay mindful of your choices.
   Remember, your actions matter. Choose joy, but choose it God’s way. His way always leads to lasting peace and fulfillment.
4. Put away anything that pulls you off course.
   Whether it’s toxic habits, relationships, or thought patterns, make intentional decisions to remove what doesn’t agree with God’s best for you.

Here are some steps to take to get started:

• Spend quiet time with God each day. Ask Him, “What is Your dream for my life, Lord?” and listen.
• Write down your passions and dreams, and pray over them, surrendering them to His direction.
• Take one small step toward a God-honoring dream, whether it’s serving, learning, building relationships, or simply saying “yes” to something new He is stirring in your heart.

Today I want to encourage you to not wait until tomorrow, next week, or some “better” season to begin living with purpose. Start now! Whether you are 18 or 88, today is the best day to line up your heart with God’s call and His plan. Rejoice in the journey, stay attentive to His voice, and walk boldly knowing that your life, surrendered and joyful, is a beautiful offering to Him.

Today’s scripture reading: Ecclesiastes 11:9-10

 9Rejoice, 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.

10Therefore remove sorrow from your heart, and put away evil from your flesh, for childhood and youth are vanity.

Journal Prompt:

• What dream or desire has God placed in your heart that you need to start pursuing today?
• Are there any distractions, sorrows, or sins you need to lay aside in order to move forward?
• Write a prayer asking God to help you rejoice, live wisely, and walk in His purpose, starting today.