Daily Bread for Jul 26, Ecc 9-12

Today’s readings are Ecc 9-12.

These closing chapters of Ecclesiastes deal with the realities of life and the truth of living in a fallen world. Trying to find meaning or hope in wealth, education, politics, relationships or power only leads to frustration, disappointment, and despair. For many, the endless pursuit of those things has left them empty and jaded.

Furthermore, any sense of self-importance should be put into the proper perspective of fearing God (a reverential awe of Him, not a trembling apprehension) and obeying His commandments.

Solomon drifted away from God. The pursuit of his own pleasure and self-image only made him realize how futile life was apart from God. Ultimately, he came to the point that his response to God, even when he didn't fully understand him, was one of faith and trust. The wisest man in the history of the world tried to find meaning apart from God and failed. He concludes by finally confessing that he is unable to understand God's ways...but trusts Him and His word anyway.

His final words provide the framework for the entire book, 

Ecc 12:13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.