I call this “The Difference between David and Solomon.” “You thrill me, LORD, with all you have done for me! I sing for joy because of what you have done” (Psalm 92:4, NLT).

I was realizing that David meditated on God’s creation, on God’s Word, on God’s beauty, and delighted himself. Solomon studied God’s creation, and His Word and came up empty. In Ecclesiastes, Solomon tells us that all is meaningless. That there’s nothing out there for us except to obey God’s commands. He describes it as our duty in the end of the book.

God, and His ways, were a delight to David and duty to Solomon. What are they to you? If we are finding our devotions a duty instead of a delight, how can we change? It seems like it’s where our heart lies. If you love God with your whole heart, then drawing near and being with Him, thinking on Him, hearing His Word is a delight. Think of being in love and getting a call from the one you are infatuated with. It was a thrill! “You thrill me, LORD, with all you have done for me! I sing for joy because of what you have done.” David looked at his life and was overcome with gladness because of the goodness and mercy of the Lord. Solomon looked at his life and was overcome by its meaninglessness.

“Vanity. It’s all vanity!” he exclaims. Solomon was shown more “goodness” than anyone. God gave him everything, but his heart wasn’t in the right place. He loved his stuff. He loved his women. David loved God. What’s your heart set on? What thrills and delights it? If you find yourself dwelling on and lighting up at something other than God, then it’s time to get on your knees and repent. Ask for God’s help. Reject those other loves and love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength.