Ecclesiastes 11:9, "Young people, it's wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it. Do everything you want to do; take it all in. But remember that you must give an account to God for everything you do." Psalm 119:9-11, "How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. I have tried hard to find you- don't let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."

Think

Sometimes when we come to the end of something it causes us to reflect and see things more clearly – whether it's coming to the end of high school (I wish I'd chosen different friends!), the end of a relationship (I wish I'd appreciated what we had!), or the end of a job (I wish I'd been more focused!). It's especially true when we come to the end of our lives. Too many times we hear stories of those who wish they'd made a greater impact and agonize over what could have been; it's a painful experience. Conversely, there's great comfort in knowing we've spent our lives in pursuit of God's purpose and lived for something other than ourselves. It's the difference between, what Solomon calls in the Book of Ecclesiastes, "under the sun" living and "above the sun" living. Solomon warns us to enjoy every minute of being young and reminds us, that in the end, we will give an account to God. Will we be able to look back and see a track record of following God consistently? We shouldn't wait until we grow old to pursue God's purpose for our lives. The time is NOW. Don't wait another minute. Living with the end in mind glorifies God and creates a truly meaningful, purpose-filled life. That's what "above the sun" living is all about!

Act

It's important that we live in the moment, but with the end in mind. Consider what people would remember about your life. Write down what you would want to be said, and let it be reflective of a life lived with true meaning and God's purpose!

Pray

Heavenly Father, thank You for this gift of life You have given me. I want to make the most of this blessing and focus. Therefore, help me to live my life with the end in mind – truly enjoying every minute of it and being obedient to the plans that You have laid out for me. In Jesus' name, Amen!