Ecclesiastes 11:8

"Indeed, if. man should live many years, let him rejoice in them all, and let him remember the days of darkness, for they shall be many. Everything that is to come will be futility."if. man should live many years" -note the word "if". God doesn't guarantee. long life to any one of us.

"let him rejoice in them all" -God believes that throughout life, in every stage of life, from youth to old age-life can be appreciated and enjoyed. In fact, here is. direct command to enjoy every stage of your life. The Apostle Paul had learned this secret (Philippians 4:10-13).

"the days of darkness, for they shall be many" -Some feel that the "days of darkness" refers to the time of old age. Others, that it refers to the time you spend in the grave or Sheol. But such "days" aren't dark for the believer (Luke 16:19ff; Philippians 1:21-23). It just seems to me that the days of darkness would refer to the days of hardship or calamity. Yes, the days of darkness will be many, even for believers. Hard times do not mean that God doesn't love you. Enjoy life, and don't let trials and hardships turn you into. cynical or bitter person. Don't allow the days of darkness to remove your joy and appreciation in being allowed to live.

"Everything that is to come will be futility" -this is another truth that we are to remember as we are enjoying life. This doesn't mean that there isn't an afterlife, or that everything you do in life is meaningless, for it isn't (2 Corinthians 5:10). But it is saying, "As you are enjoying life, just remember that all your earthly accomplishments are only temporary". Hence, make sure that you accomplish something that will endure (Matthew 6:19-20). In addition, never let "joy" and "good times" be the ultimate goal in your life. Rejoice! But never allow rejoicing to become your god. Remember why you are rejoicing!