Daily Bread for Jul 24, Ecc 1-4

Today’s readings are Ecc 1-4.

Ecclesiastes can be a tough book if not read in context.

First, the author, presumably Solomon, is looking back on his life, reflecting upon what worked and what didn't. He is sharing what areas he concentrated upon that were unfruitful and non-productive. The book is a warning to place your focus on things above, not earthly things. It is not meant to create despair, but to re-orient those that are building their lives on things that will not last and are not eternal. The basic message of Ecclesiastes is this, "If you've placed all your value in things that are all about you, your life is empty and in vain."

Second, the intended audience is those who were close to the king and were predominantly well-to-do, educated and had the time and resources to read. They were the exact type of people Solomon intended to caution, people who perhaps thought their success and popularity had meaning and worth.

Reading with these two points in mind helps to show the wisdom of a man who had it all. Despite being the richest man in the world, he felt empty until he realized all he ever really needed was faith and trust in God.