Vapors

Our church did a series on “hevel” a few months ago. Hevel is a Hebrew word meaning smoke, vapor, or steam, and it’s been translated to “vanity” or “meaningless” in various parts of the Bible.

Go back and read this scripture again—all is Hevel!? All is impermanent, fleeting, uncontrollable?

At first, the idea of losing control strikes deep fear. Lord knows how much time I put into controlling moments to keep my kids safe, healthy, and happy. But the Teacher (son of David, king in Jerusalem), reminds us here that the toils are just toils.

It reminds me of a book I recently finished, Daisy Jones & the Six, where a mother character is venting about the endless tasks and fears of motherhood. She suddenly stops herself mid-sentence and says, “I don’t know why I’m complaining. I love my life!”

When we step aside from our toils it’s easy to realize we’ve been seeing the forest for the trees. God is the one weaving beautiful lives out of our stories.

If you believe that God is in control, what becomes more important this week? What becomes less important?

All is Hevel. You cannot grab or control life. You can only learn to be where your feet are today.

Emily

Have more time? This passage from Ecclesiastes is a whole poem. Read it here.