Without God - Part 45: The Conclusion of the Matter

 

“The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one shepherd.”

—Ecclesiastes 12:11

In this last chapter of the Book of Ecclesiastes, King Solomon has some final words of commentary to add to his analysis of life “under the sun”—that is, life without the Presence of God in a human’s life. Please note what Solomon wrote, as found in Ecclesiastes 12:9-14:

Not only was the Teacher wise, but he also imparted knowledge to the people. He pondered and searched out and set in order many proverbs. The Teacher searched to find just the right words, and what he wrote was upright and true.

The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one shepherd. Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them. Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.

Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.

When all is said and done, King Solomon brings us back to the realization that life “under the sun”—life without God—is meaningless, a casting after the wind. But, in contrast, life with a relationship with God has inestimable value. To which each of us as believers, at the start of this new day, can voice a hearty, “Amen!”

 

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