What Ecclesiastes Teaches About Meaning in Life
I’m often asked what my favorite book of the Bible is, and typically I answer Romans. Surprisingly, though, I often find myself in Ecclesiastes. I love Romans for its robust, deep theology. Paul wrestles with some very difficult questions and teaches us things that can be hard to hear.
Ecclesiastes, on the other hand, is King Solomon’s lament. Solomon had it all. He was the richest and wisest man in the world at the time. His influence shaped nations near and far. His nation was an economic powerhouse that reached every corner of the known world.
Near the end of his life, he comes to some startling conclusions about all He is, has and has done.
The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem. Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, vanity of vanities! All is vanity. Ecclesiastes 1:1-2 ESV
That theme echoes throughout the short book. All of it is meaningless. All is vanity, emptiness, a chasing after the wind. That’s a harsh condemnation because the things He calls meaningless are what the world tells us will bring us completeness, happiness and fulfillment.
If that’s true, where is the meaning in life? Where do we find our purpose? Fortunately, Solomon answers that for us.
The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 ESV
The Apostle Paul writes:
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned, in whatever situation I am, to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13
Jesus put it this way,
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33 ESV
Stepping outside the Scriptures, the Westminster Shorter Catechism tells us that the chief end of humanity is
“Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him for ever”
The key to meaning in life is to follow after the things of God. Nothing else will satisfy. It’s the purpose God created you for.
Are you chasing after the wind or the things that will really fulfill you?
Kevin
SUMMARY
I love Romans for its theology, but Ecclesiastes is where I keep returning. Solomon’s verdict on a life that had everything still cuts through today, and his answer to that emptiness is the answer to ours.
TAKEAWAY
You can gain everything the world calls success and still find it empty, because none of it was ever built to satisfy you.
The answer isn’t found in more. It’s found in fearing God and keeping His commandments, no matter how much or how little you have.
Ask yourself honestly: are you chasing after the wind, or are you chasing after the one thing that actually lasts?
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