Do As You Like

Many that grew up in church circles are familiar with the rules of ‘don’ts’; ‘Don’t do this’ and ‘don’t do that’. For some, these rules have remained the very fabric of their morality. It is a common reoccurring theme in Christendom.

However, what if I told you that you can do as it pleases you?

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.

Ecclesiastes 11:9 NLT

The wise preacher gives counsel to young and old alike. Life is good! Living is wonderful! Enjoy yourself! In fact, do everything you want to do!

The New King James translations of the same verse says to “walk in the ways of your heart and in the sight of your eyes”. There’s a way in your heart you want to follow, a path that you’ve set your eyes on. It’s all good, go ahead!

BUT… But! … Yes, BUT!
There’s a big neon-lit flashing BUT in the midst of that verse…and the preacher continues: “You will give an account TO GOD for EVERYTHING you do”. Oh my!

This is beyond an ‘everything has consequences’ kind of philosophy. I mean, so often, we see people that seem to get away with bad things. Others would shrug at the notion of dealing with the consequences of their actions.

It is not just about you, about here or about now. It’s not even about other people. It is about GOD.

You can do as you like, but you would have to stand before GOD and relay EVERYTHING while HE judges as HE pleases. Interesting! In that day, God is also allowed to do as He will.

Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, And let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth; Walk in the ways of your heart, And in the sight of your eyes; But know that for all these God will bring you into judgment.

Ecclesiastes 11:9 NKJV

What does the preacher advise? “Remember now your Creator, in the days of your youth…” (Ecclesiastes 12:1)

Don’t let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator. Honor him in your youth before you grow old and say, “Life is not pleasant anymore.

Ecclesiastes 12:1 NLT

This wise preacher, with all his privileges of wealth and splendor, concludes in his musings that man’s life is vain. It’s fleeting and passing.

A temporary arrangement that goes by faster than we think. So, find your creator now. Connect with Him before it’s too late. Honour Him with this life He has graciously given.

How?

Through Jesus, The Way, Truth and Life. Repent of going your own way, receive Him as Saviour and Lord, live a life guided by His Spirit. Or remain doing as you like, it’s your decision to make.

But His is the judgement to keep.