“So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun.” — Ecclesiastes 8:15 NIV

The pursuit of happiness is not just a governing principle from the founding of America, it is also a biblical one. We do not seek happiness at the expense of another, but our successful pursuit of enjoyment is a gift from God. To find happiness in our day is a blessing from God. There is nothing noble in maintaining a serious disposition that is absent of smiles, laughter, and enjoyment.

Granted, our world challenges us with times of sorrow and deep sadness, but that doesn’t need to be our day-in and day-out normal. The abundant life offered by our Creator may take us through our share of trials, but those are buffered by our moments of enjoyment, planned or unexpected.

Solomon in this verse points to the daily act of eating and drinking as a reason for enjoyment. Something mundane and repetitive can be a source of gladness when we become intentional about pursuing happiness. When we cherish the moments of enjoyment in our day, we express our gratitude toward God and recognize His interest in our life.