I met with a group of ladies for Bible study a few days ago. One asked if I ever thought about life's meaning before becoming a believer. I told her, “Yes, and it caused me a lot of anguish.”

Like many people, I searched for fulfillment in temporary pleasures, yet I wrestled with questions: What’s the meaning of life? Why am I here? But my heart was hardened against God. I refused to consider that the answers could be found in him.

This struggle brings us to Solomon’s reflections in Ecclesiastes. In chapter 1, he describes life as meaningless, an endless cycle of repetition: “What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done” (Ecc 1:9). But in chapter 3, his outlook changes. The same cycles and routines become purposeful, beautiful, and even joyful. What makes the difference? God and eternity.

Knowing God changes everything, even the most mundane tasks. Washing dishes or mowing the lawn can feel futile. Still, Solomon reminds us: “For everything there is a season” (Ecc 3:1). God makes “everything beautiful in its time” (Ecc 3:11 ). Our ordinary routines are not empty—they are pieces of God’s eternal plan.

When Solomon says, “Remember your Creator” (Ecc 12:1), he means more than acknowledging God’s existence. It’s about trusting God and living as though his attributes—his sovereignty, holiness, and goodness—shape our daily lives.

Paul echoes this in his letter to the Colossians: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men” (Col 3:23 ). Whether working, doing chores, or sharing a meal, we are to do everything for God’s glory. Our Creator is present in every moment, infusing even the simplest tasks with purpose.

How do we cultivate this kind of trust?

1. Submit to God’s Word. Scripture reveals who God is and what he requires. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Ps 119:10 5).

2. Pray Continually. Prayer keeps us aware of God’s presence and our dependence on him.

3. Cultivate Gratitude. Recognize God’s kindness in the ordinary. “Every good gift … is from above” (Jas 1:17 ).

4. Reflect on the Gospel. In Christ, even mundane tasks become offerings of love and obedience.

5. Keep Eternity in View. Our routines are temporary, but they carry eternal significance.

Ecclesiastes concludes: “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecc 12:13 ). Bring God into your daily routines. Remember he gave you breath, work, family, and rest. In these ordinary moments, we find joy and meaning by trusting the one who holds eternity in his hands.

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