9 And moreover, because the Preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yes, he pondered and sought out and set in order many proverbs. 10 The Preacher sought to find acceptable words; and what was written was upright–words of truth. 11 The words of the wise are like goads, and the words of scholars are like well-driven nails, given by one Shepherd. 12 And further, my son, be admonished by these. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is wearisome to the flesh. 13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man’s all. 14 For God will bring every work into judgment, Including every secret thing, Whether good or evil.
Ecclesiastes 12:9-14
What should we do based on Solomon’s teachings? After all, he searched high and low and far and wide for meaning and purpose in life. What did he finally learn about these matters and what is his final wisdom for us?
The entirety of this book is distilled in three simple and powerful life lessons. Here they are.
**Fear God! Have a healthy respect for the power, person, and preeminence of God at all times. He is God, we are not.
Fearing God in this manner requires a relationship with Christ. He gave His life to for us so that we may be forgiven, restored, and reconciled to God. We show our respect and fear for God by believing His Word and trusting Him for salvation.
**Keep his commands! Solomon declares obedience to God as the “whole duty of man.” We are called to be surrendered to God day by day. Our obedience springs from our salvation. After all He has done for us, we can seek to obey Him.
**Finally, live with a realization that we will stand before God in judgment. Our lives are not our own. Every person who has ever lived will not escape His judgment. Whether good or evil, all acts that take place will be judged by God. We are all accountable to Him.
The book ends with these three lessons. As we conclude, may we take a moment to give thanks for Jesus. Without Christ, we are hopeless, our lives have no lasting value, and life and death are meaningless. But through Christ, we have hope for the future. We have hope for heaven. And we have meaning and purpose that lasts. “To God be the glory, great things he has done.” (1 Samuel 12:24)
Tony French
mrtonyfrench 