There is a passage in the book of Ecclesiastes which reads: "For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow" (Eccl. 1:18). And how true this is!
While I don't claim to be wise like Solomon, I have learned enough to see the end of so much that people in this world seek after. And, yes, it's sad and painful to watch and know the vanity and grasping after the wind which rightly applies to so many of the things for which people live.
Perhaps it's because I've read the end of the book, but so much of what is offered and even pushed upon us in this world is pointless. When life comes to its close or this world comes to an end, will it really matter how many friends you have on Facebook? whether you've seen the latest movie releases? whether you've made millions or just got by? whether you've won awards or just done your job? whether you are world renowned or pretty much unknown? Will it matter how much you've traveled? how much fun you've had? or if you've completed a bucket list of fun activities?
Most folks who've lived a while know the fleeting nature of beauty, the results of age upon physical strength and agility, and the utter foolishness of so many of our youthful pursuits and adventures. They begin to see that so much for which we live really doesn't matter that much in the long run.
I've been heard at least a time or two to tell my children and grandchildren when they've asked me to participate in some activities which they think will be so exciting and fantastic: "I've already been there, done that, got the T-shirt and it doesn't even fit any more."
Now, before you think I suffer from the deepest of depression and have no ambition to do anything in life, let me point out that I'm not opposed to enjoying life, working hard, being creative, trying to get ahead, being physically fit or even trying to make one's self look half-way attractive to others. I am not even opposed to having a host of friends on Facebook or other social networks, though I can't see much point in it myself.
What I am trying to say is how important it is for us to think about what really matters, set priorities and stay focused.
And what does really matter in life? If we look to the final exam, so to speak, what is all important? Isn't it people knowing and being right with their Maker? Certainly, the Bible says that it is so! The Bible, throughout, calls upon people to give up their futile and rebellious ways and look to their Creator for mercy, forgiveness and a new life in fellowship with Him. It calls upon all of us to repent of our foolish and erring ways and receive the forgiveness and new life God offers for the sake of the innocent sufferings and death of God the Son, Messiah Jesus, in our stead. In fact, the Bible teaches that God allows this sin-filled world to go on a little longer only because He is patient with people and is giving to all of us more time to repent and look to Him for mercy in Jesus, the crucified and risen Savior (cf. 2 Pet. 3:9).
So much of what we may do in life can be a means to an end rather than endless means that ultimately mean nothing. What I am saying is that we can enjoy life and use the things and time God gives us in this world, but it should be for a purpose -- to build relationships with people and to show them what truly matters and is important in life.
Life is futile if lived apart from God and His purpose and design for life. Life brings pain and grief when people for whom Christ died ignore Him, turn away from Him and live in rebellion against their Maker. It causes those who have gained some wisdom grief to see it.
But life is full of meaning when we trust in God's mercy and forgiveness for Jesus' sake and live life in fellowship with our Creator and Redeemer. And life is full of joy when, by the grace of God, people in our lives acknowledge their erring ways and turn to their Maker and Redeemer for forgiveness and eternal life in His everlasting kingdom.
Randy Moll is the managing editor of the Westside Eagle Observer. He may be reached by email at [email protected]. Opinions expressed are those of the author.
Editorial on 04/19/2017