It's interesting, Andrew, Ecclesiastes 11:8 mentions "days of darkness". It seems in this passage as Craig Bartholomew says in his commentary, "one might sense Qohelet moving toward an affirmation of joy over despair but still struggling with how to relate the two. But I think as John Goldingay says in his commentary, "While dark days can come within one's lifetime, Qohelet encourages readers to see this experience as the exception rather than the rule" which of course I am sure we affirm. I enjoyed your post!
Yes I think there are many virtues in the Christian life that tend toward joy, as well as the fruit which comes from the Spirit. I also want to acknowledge not everyone experiences it the same way.
It's interesting, Andrew, Ecclesiastes 11:8 mentions "days of darkness". It seems in this passage as Craig Bartholomew says in his commentary, "one might sense Qohelet moving toward an affirmation of joy over despair but still struggling with how to relate the two. But I think as John Goldingay says in his commentary, "While dark days can come within one's lifetime, Qohelet encourages readers to see this experience as the exception rather than the rule" which of course I am sure we affirm. I enjoyed your post!
Yes I think there are many virtues in the Christian life that tend toward joy, as well as the fruit which comes from the Spirit. I also want to acknowledge not everyone experiences it the same way.