A quiet moment.
A lasting word.

TODAY’S REFLECTION · OCTOBER 15, 2026

A Time For Everything – Do Good Now

SCRIPTURE: Ecclesiastes 3:12–13

“I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil – this is the gift of God.”

Imagine a man who keeps promising to visit an elderly neighbour when work becomes less demanding. First comes a deadline, then the pursuit of a promotion, then another responsibility. He genuinely intends to visit, but the kindness he could offer today keeps getting pushed into tomorrow.

Many of us approach joy in the same way: “When the school fees are cleared, when we own a home, when life settles down, then we will enjoy ourselves.” But one challenge often gives way to another. Meanwhile, life is happening.

After asking what we gain from our toil in verses 9-10, and acknowledging in verse 11 that we cannot understand God’s whole work, the Teacher does not tell us to put life on hold. He points us towards joy and doing good while we live. An unexplained future need not prevent a faithful present.

Verse 13 brings this wisdom into ordinary life. Food, drink and satisfaction in our work are gifts from God, not simply things to rush past while pursuing something bigger. We can work towards a better future without overlooking the goodness available today. A meal shared with family need not wait until we own the house.

This does not mean ignoring unpaid bills, pretending pain is pleasant or abandoning our ambitions. It means we need not postpone every expression of gratitude until every problem is solved.

And the passage places doing good alongside enjoying life. Our blessings are not only opportunities for personal comfort; they can become opportunities to care for others. We can enjoy a meal and share it, appreciate a friendship and make time for it, or encourage someone even while carrying burdens of our own.

As you discern your season, consider not only what you are waiting for, but what God has already placed within your reach. You may not be able to change every circumstance today, but perhaps you can make that visit, give someone your undivided attention or receive a simple gift with gratitude. The neighbour is still next door. The opportunity to love need not wait for an easier season.