The resources God has given us to live a thriving life are His Word, Spirit, and People.
Read God’s Word:
Ecclesiastes 1-6
Act 2: God’s Covenant People
Scene 5: Kings and Prophets: God shapes a kingdom people
Background Information: Ecclesiastes 1-6
The evidence points to Solomon having written Ecclesiastes towards the end of his life. The word “Ecclesiastes” comes from a Greek translation of the Hebrew word for “teacher,” sometimes translated as “preacher” from the first verse in the book. The key word in the book is the Hebrew word hebel translated “futility,” “meaningless,” or “vanity.” The word is used 38 times and literally means “vapor.” Life is like a wisp of smoke that seems substantial, but try to grab it, and there is nothing truly solid there. It may seem like an odd book to find in the Bible, but it is not advocating becoming a relativist, where you can find your own truth, or a hedonist, where you find meaning in pleasure. A few key verses help us understand the purpose of the book.
“Absolute futility. Everything is futile.”
Ecclesiastes 1:2
The first seven chapters describe Solomon’s pursuit of scientific discovery, philosophy, pleasure, alcohol, building projects, acquiring property, and sexual gratification. All this, he found to be futile. Human efforts to find meaning apart from God are futile.
“He has also put eternity in their hearts.”
Ecclesiastes 3:11
Humans are stuck in time, but have eternity in their hearts. The reason we find life futile is because time itself is hebel, a fleeting and unpredictable vapor. We live in time, but we are not made for time. Our hearts are made by God for God and yet we seek to find meaning apart from God.
“When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: fear God and keep his commands, because this is for all humanity. For God will bring every act to judgment, including every hidden thing, whether good or evil.”
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
The book on vaporous futility will conclude with solid purpose. Humans have a purpose; it is not theirs to discover through foolish pursuits, but it has been given by God in revelation. Our purpose is to fear (revere) God and obey his commands. He is the righteous judge; he alone describes what is good and what is evil. He alone defines human purpose.
As you read this book, remember, “What matters the most at the end, matters the most now.” What will matter the most at the end will be relationship with God and others. That is what matters the most now. Solomon largely squandered his life. He didn’t come to the right conclusion until late in life, but better late than never. Solomon wrote to instruct the young to avoid his path because he knew from experience that it is better to learn wisdom early than late. Whatever your age, whatever your past, today is the day to “fear God and keep his commands.”
Pray:
Praise God for…
Thank God for…
Confess your sins to God
Kids Camp starts today! This week about 225 kids and volunteers will learn the story of Esther and enjoy fun camp-like activities and sports. Pray that our kids deepen their love and trust in God and His plan for them. Pray for safety and good weather all week. Today’s memory verse: Proverbs 16:3.
Ask God for… (what else concerns you?)
Reflect:
Write down one passage of scripture that stood out to you today.
Write down why this passage stood out to you.
Engage Community:
Text or call someone now and tell them…
– What you are praying for.
– What stood out from God’s word today.