J.A. Matteson
Silver tarnishes and cedar rots. Grapes on the vine are consumed by man or the earth. Water satisfies parched lips yet ceases and thirst again afflicts man and beast alike. The LORD gives abundantly all things in their time for enjoyment, but joy in them is fleeting apart from the God who bestows them. "Man in his pomp, yet without understanding, is like the beasts that perish" (Ps. 49:20). Folly strives for more and more, to scheme and consume for its own sake, seeking satisfaction in things. Things are good and gifts of God when rightly understood. But things are things and their glory fades just as those who possess them. The earth is the LORD's and all it contains. Blessed are those who's joy is in the LORD the maker of heaven and earth. For His blessings may be enjoyed fully and rightly when the palm is open for Him to bestow or remove as seems good in His sight. Understanding informs the soul that man owns nothing but is a tenant upon the earth and that the day will shortly come when that which is given will return to the stewardship of Him who gave it. Offer the sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving to the LORD most high, His mercies endure forever.
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