Ups and Downs

Ups and Downs

A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance (V.4).

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

Reading

We probably all agree that life has its ups and downs. Israel’s wise King Solomon wrote about the changes we seem to always be going through. In Ecclesiastes, he said: “There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens . . . a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance” (3:1-4).

Solomon’s father, David, was called “a man after [God’s] own heart” (1 SAM. 13:14; ACTS 13:22). Even though God gives him this amazing description, David’s life is just another example of ups and downs. David cried over his and Bathsheba’s first child who was terminally ill (2 SAM. 12:22). But he also wrote songs of praise and happy laughter (PS. 126:1-3). With the death of his son Absalom, David went through a time of deep mourning (2 SAM. 18:33). And at another time, he danced before God with total joy (2 SAM. 6:12-15).

We don’t help anyone when we pretend the Christian life is great all the time. The Bible is totally honest about how up and down every life is. So we should be too. How are things for you at the moment? Whether you feel good or terrible, both are reason enough to come to God, talk to Him honestly and trust Him for the road ahead.

To pray about…

Father, help us to turn to You not only in sadness but also when things are great. We know You give us both good times and bad to bring us closer to You and help us grow. May we learn to trust You in whatever we’re going through. Amen.

NO MATTER HOW GOOD OR BAD LIFE IS TODAY, OUR NEED FOR GOD STAYS THE SAME.

Youth Edition – Our Daily Bread Ministries