"Ecclesiastes"

Have you ever read the book of Ecclesiastes? It was written by Solomon, King of Israel. (I know some debate who wrote it but it doesn't take much to realize Solomon wrote it!) Solomon was given wisdom by God like no other man on earth was given (I Kings 3:10-13). There is no one noted for their wisdom like Solomon.

What is the book about? A vivid, realistic look at life! Solomon explored life according to the wisdom God gave him to find the meaning to life. With all the great wisdom he had, still he could not find life's meaning just by living life. One thing that seems to be an over-all theme is the "futility of life." Futile means meaningless. In other words, no real meaning can be discovered within the realm of man's reality. Solomon discovered life was not fair in many cases yet, in his search, he did find things beneficial. He realized some things were better than others even though, in themselves, they do not provide the ultimate meaning in life. He realized God gave us things to enjoy but there is not real fulfillment in life's pleasures. In some things man enjoys, there can be consequences to the choices he makes.

In the end, Solomon realizes there is something beyond the reality of our existence and this universe. This reality is greater and more important than man. While many go through life seeking for happiness and it's real meaning, Solomon, after following all the avenues of futility, came to this one conclusion: "The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil." (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)

Right there we find the meaning to our lives. Too many are running and listening to every medical information, every news cast and allows man's world to shape their thinking and values. If we are going to God, which we are, where should our attention and focus be? The fear of the Lord will have a good result in this life and the life beyond.