May 21, 2014 (Wednesday)
Our book today is Ecclesiastes, written by Solomon when he had grown old. The book is a warning from him that life without God leads to dissilusionment and despondency, that much of what the world values is empty and meaningless. The last verse of the book, however, makes clear what his true feelings were: Faith in God holds the secret for having a happy, meaningful life.
Ecclesiastes – Devotional thoughts
We can learn from Solomon as he shares with us the mistakes he made so that we might not repeat them in our own lives:
“I have seen all the works which have been done under the sun, and behold, all is vanity and striving after the wind” (1:14). Life is meaningful only if our faith in God is strong.
“As he had come naked from his mother’s womb, so will he return..” (5:15). Materialism is folly.
“Do not say, ‘Why were the old days better than these?’ For it is not wise to ask such questions” (7:10). We miss out on the possibilities for this day when we are nostalgic for the past.
“The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person.” (12:13).