And, when all is said and done, here is the last word: worship in reverence the one True God, and keep His commands, for this is what God expects of every person. Ecclesiastes 12:13 The Voice
Unrestrained lust and self-gratification will not satisfy. Neither will wealth or success (Ecc. 2:1-11). King Solomon could confidently state these things because he had more women (700 wives, 300 concubines) and more wealth than anyone else – ever. So, he should know.
Neither is wisdom the ultimate goal said the wisest man who ever lived (Ecc. 1:12-18). Earthly wisdom, apart from God, avails nothings. It is fruitless and leads to frustration.
Ecclesiastes has a fatalistic tone because Solomon wrote this book near the end of his life (Ecc. 12:1-8). Facing death made him realize that he had squandered his life on empty pursuits leaving him depressed. Solomon tried everything the world says will bring happiness. He found them all to be pointless (vanity).
Does this sound like our culture today? The global pandemic forced the whole world to contemplate death. More people than ever are realizing they are chasing the wind, just like Solomon. Our prayer ministry sees more depressed and anxious people than those who are physically ill. Suicide rates are up because people feel like life is not worth living.
Because we are wired for purpose earthly pursuits lead to hopelessness. They can never satisfy and fail to fulfill our deep need for purpose. The meaning of life can only be found in the Creator of life.
Devotion to God was the answer to “the meaning of life” in Solomon’s day. And it is the answer in our day. Every longing for fulfillment and meaning is answered in an intimate relationship with Jesus.
Those who choose to walk with Jesus are called to a purpose – HIS!
Serving God’s higher calling fulfills our need for purpose. As we live for Him, the God of hope, fills our souls with peace and joy (Rom. 15:13). There is no greater joy or meaning than allowing God to bless others through you. Now that’s a life worth living.