The injunction is clear—enjoy and obey. Solomon turns to the young and encourages them to do two things—one characteristic of their age, and the other not. First he says, “Enjoy it now.” The light of day and the vigor of youth are truly sweet. Enjoy it (v. 7). For the young, this advice is easy to follow. And then he hits a more somber note—“while you can.” A man who rejoices for many years must still prepare for the coming many days . . . days of darkness and vanity (v. 8). We cannot get away from age by lying to ourselves about it; we must receive it from the hand of God—and with a clear
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