Maybe I shouldn’t have favorite Bible books, but Ecclesiastes is high up my list (perhaps top 3?), and chapter 7 is full of practical wisdom, including:
“Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the heart of fools. Say not, ‘Why were the former days better than these?’ For it is not from wisdom that you ask this.” – Ecclesiastes 7:9-10

People commonly refer to the “glory days” of their past. When they were an athlete. When they were younger. Before they had responsibilities. Before they experienced a loss of a loved one, job/career, home, or anything they held valuable. Before the pandemic. Somehow the past looks better.

In these verses, Solomon, who lived a life where he gained and lost far more than nearly anyone else ever will, categorically says this is foolish. He’s not doing this to criticize, but to keep others from repeating his own mistakes. To advise against anger for the wrong reasons about things that can’t be changed or fixed.

God’s mercies are new every morning, and with the path we’ve taken before today, He has prepared us for the day ahead in a way no other path could. Strive for what is ahead – your true “glory days” in Him! Start from here and listen for Him. Perfection lies ahead.

“Give us each day our daily bread” – Luke 11:3