The book of Ecclesiastes can be a bit of a misery-trudge if you’re not prepared for it. But the author’s stark discussion on the briefness of life shows up some great insight. Knowing life is short and we only get a handful of decades on the earth, Solomon writes: ‘Seize life!…Each day is God’s gift…Whatever turns up, grab it and do it…heartily! This is your last and only chance at it’ (vv. 7-10 MSG). Life is short, but it’s full of potential. And speaking bluntly: those of us in the UK with expendable income and options are in a rare place. We have the chance to make the most of the world God’s given us and follow what we’re passionate about – many don’t have that. What does the Bible say about making use of that opportunity? Choose to throw yourself into it. Before long, this life might be over, with all of its chances for adventure and dreaming and exploration. With God beside you, go and look for what you can run headfirst at, what makes your heart light up, and what makes you want to get out of bed in the morning. (It’s likely, by the way, that those things are where God’s plan for you lies.) So, take a look at where your passions lie, and if you don’t have any, ask God to show you where they might be.
What now?
If you’re already in a job but you’re keen to pursue your passion, see what you can do on the side – can you take night classes in spare evenings? If you’re still deciding what to do for a career, write down the things you’re passionate about.