Ecclesiastes 9:7-9

Ecclesiastes 9:7-9. Go thy way Make this use of what I have said. Eat thy bread Thy necessary and convenient food; with joy, &c. Cheerfully enjoy thy comforts, avoiding all distracting care and grief for the occurrences of this world. For God now accepteth thy works Whosoever thou art, that art truly pious and upright before him, he is gracious unto thee, accepts thy services for his honour, and allows thee a comfortable enjoyment of his blessings. Let thy garments be always white In all convenient times and circumstances; for there are times of mourning. The eastern people of the best sort used white garments, especially in times of rejoicing. But by this whiteness of garments he seems to intend a pleasant and cheerful conversation. And let thy head lack no ointment Which, upon joyful occasions, was poured upon men’s heads. Live joyfully with thy wife The one wife, whom thou lovest. Love her, and keep thyself only to her, avoiding all improper intercourse and familiarity with all other women, and thou wilt live comfortably with her; all the days of thy vanity Of this vain and frail life: which expression he uses to moderate men’s affections even toward lawful pleasures, and to admonish them of their duty and interest in making sure of a better life, and more solid comforts. For that is thy portion Allowed thee by God; and the best part of worldly enjoyments; in this life By which addition he again reminds him of the duty of seeking another and better portion in a future life.