Vanity: A Study in EcclesiastesSample

What does it say?

King Solomon observed that death is the common destiny for all humanity, but God has given gifts in life that we should enjoy.

What does it mean?

Solomon reflected on a common problem for humanity: death. Good and bad people face the same end to their lives. Even the memory of our existence eventually disappears. Perhaps worst of all, death’s timing has always remained a mystery – sometimes coming suddenly like a fish caught in a net. Despite that, Solomon also noted that God gives gifts in this life that are meant to be enjoyed and our meaningful work done with our full effort.

How should I respond?

Every person is guilty of breaking God’s law. The penalty for that disobedience is death, which is why we all face the same end. Death’s reality can cause fear in those who do not know God. Yet Scripture also teaches that if you accept Jesus’ payment on the cross, death is not the end – it is only the beginning. Because Jesus defeated death, we can embrace a new life in Him. How have you allowed this belief to change the way you live? Your most important decision is to accept this amazing gift from God. Have you made that decision? The cost of rejecting this offer is too great to ignore.