Ecclesiastes 9:9

⁹ Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun—all your meaningless days. For this is your lot in life and in your toilsome labor under the sun. 

Of all the advices of Solomon, the wisest king of Israel, “to enjoy life with your wife” could be the most attractive to wives. What did he imply when King Solomon expounded that “to enjoy life with your wife” is a husband’s lot in life and in his toilsome labor? The English term “lot” could possibly be translated as rightful “portion,” “inheritance” or “territory.” When inheritance is allocated, rightful heirs have territorial rights within the boundary of their portion. And, how could such reality relate or inspire husband to enjoy life with his wife? King Solomon had more wealth than anybody else in his generation; he built prominent structures, including the temple; he planted beautiful orchards; he owned thousands livestock. He sent men to sail his fleet of trading ships and not to mention that, he had numerous servants and soldiers who diligently served him. And, he had 700 wives and 300 concubines. But yet, he teaches that life is meaningless? Specifically, he advised as rightful portion in life and in his toilsome labor under the sun for a husband to enjoy life with his wife whom he loves, not just one instance, but all the days of his meaningless life that God has given him under the sun.

A Filipino saying goes, “Ang ina ay ang ilaw ng tahanan!” (Literally, the mother is the light of the home). Observe! When the light is bright, the home is also bright. Someone suggested, “The secret of happy home is happy wife or happy mother.” So when a mother or wife enjoys life, expect brighter atmosphere in the home. And, each household member is happy and inspired. Somehow, a husband should make it sure that he enjoys life with his wife, whom he loves, so that he would also enjoy life. But of course, a husband and wife can enjoy life together by the grace of God.

Lord Jesus, please empower all husbands to enjoy life with the wife, whom they love.

><((‘> … ><(((‘> tmec\2021 <‘)))>< … <‘))><