Read Ecclesiastes 3:12-13.

Is life out of control? Consider that God keeps the natural cycles recurring - each day, each night, each season. Solomon's conclusion is that we should make the most of our life while we have it. He does not mean this in an imbalanced, dissipating or hedonistic way. He means doing things properly, successfully, with planning and dedication. Can you give life your all knowing there is a steady hand at the helm and that things are not out of control, despite what the world's news sources imply? Do you trust that God is really in control?

Read Ecclesiastes 2: 22-26.

What is the result when a person combines his work with a relationship with God? Consider the sinner who is cut off from God - what does God say about that sinner's work?

Read Ephesians 5:15-16.

This passage literally speaks of buying up the time, of taking advantage of every opportunity, of watching for that opening to serve, to do good. Consider the safeguards God has established when a person feels good about life, about who and what she is, what she is doing with her life, and where she is headed. Have you experienced the joy of unselfishness this week?

Read Ephesians 4:28.

How are we to come into possession of things in a way that God approves? Notice also our responsibility to others.

Read Psalms 128:2 and I Timothy 4:8.

What do these verses say about the true enjoyment of life, how that is possible?

Read Romans 14:12, where we are warned that we shall give account of ourselves to God. See also I Corinthians 3:12-15. Notice that the fire shall try every man's works. Have you worked works lately that will survive the fire?