What’s a worthwhile life? Solomon dissects this question from two perspectives. One, from the mind unenlightened by God, deems life futile. The other, illuminated by the wisdom of God, finds purpose and hope in every breath.
In the opening chapter of the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon starkly declares life’s vanity. Earthly gains evaporate upon death; efforts fade into obscurity, forgotten by posterity. Is this the essence of existence?
Solomon, known as the Preacher, looks back on his time ruling Israel, thinking deeply about life’s twists and turns. He starts without talking about God, trying to see the world from the perspective of those who haven’t found faith, searching for the core of existence.
“I, the Preacher, have been king over Israel in Jerusalem. And I set my mind to seek and explore by wisdom about everything that has been done under heaven. It is a sorry task with which God has given the sons of mankind to be troubled,” (Ecclesiastes 1:12-13).
Solomon’s introspection reveals that even the unconverted ponder life’s eternal questions. Philosophy arises from grappling with the meaning of life and death without God’s guidance.
It’s by God’s grace that the lost engage in such contemplation. Reflecting on life’s earthly facets is, I believe, one of God’s most treasured gifts to humanity.
For those of you who haven’t found God, do you ever stop to think about this? It’s the biggest question there is: what happens after we die? It’s urgent. We need to consider it.