Day 193

By
Emptiness

Scripture

July 11—Ecclesiastes 7-12: The Solution to Life's Emptiness

Observation

The Preacher continues to build his case for the hopeless and helpless state of life in this world (8:9, 15, 17; 9:3, 6, 9, 11, 13: 10:5). What good is it to laugh (chapter 7) or live lawfully (chapter 8) when life's tragedies and inconsistencies sweep down upon the righteous as well as the unrighteous? Where can you turn to find help in making sense out of the complex pieces of life? The answer comes back with ringing clarity: "Don't let the excitement of being young cause you to forget about your Creator. Honor him in your youth before the evil years come. Fear God and obey his commandments" (12:1, 13). The secret of life is held in the hands of the Giver of life. Though at times you will not understand his workings (11:5), you can always build your life with confidence upon his Word.

Application

The quest for meaning in life is not new. Over the centuries, men and women have struggled with the same questions that plagued the Preacher of Ecclesiastes and may be plaguing you as well. The "solutions" they found are enlightening.

  • A French playwright named Jean-Paul Sartre concluded there is No Exit from this meaningless existence.
  • A Danish theologian named Soren Kierkegaard was driven by life's complexities to a blind leap of faith.
  • Henry David Thoreau wrote, "The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation."
Do not overlook the solution in the last two verses of this book: "Fear God and obey his commandments, for this is the entire duty of man. For God will judge us for everything we do, including every hidden thing, good or bad" (12:13-14). But, over two thousand years ago, Jesus Christ appeared in human history and offered this solution to man's desperate condition: "My purpose is to give life in all its fullness" (John 10:10). Only with Christ in the center can you view life from God's perspective and see purpose in every part. With John 14:6 as your personal "invitation," come to God, the Giver of life, today!

Prayer

Dear Lord Jesus, You are the Way and the Truth and the Life to the solution of any desperations we may have in this life as believers. We will continue to lean on you to guide us through this thing call life until you return for we know you are the only way to heaven.  In Jesus name. Amen!

Lean on Him!


© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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