S) "13 The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. 14 For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil."
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 (NASB)
O) Just as the premise of the book is kind of summed up by Ecclesiastes 1:17-18, the above verses really do sum up the conclusion. The entire book is a sort of exercise in existentialism, but in the end, this verse shows the truth. The only thing that gives life purpose and meaning, is the fact that God is real, sovereign, holy, and yet loving. His reality means that a purpose also exists; His sovereignty means that we should seek that purpose; His holiness means the purpose is perfect; His love means the perfect is possible.
A) If not for the reality of Jesus Christ, and the gospel in its entirety, I would be lost in an existential whirlpool. I honestly cannot imagine deriving any real hope, or joy, or purpose, if God was not real, sovereign, holy, and loving. Because He is all of those things, I cling to the hope I have. We live in a culture and era, wherein scientific and humanistic beliefs dominate the public forum. But, questions of hope, joy (separate from happiness), and purpose are not scientifically or humanly answered. Those questions require faith (which is where atheists will make religions out of secular principles), but the only faith which is proven, is faith in the LORD, through Jesus Christ. I want to be there with those answers, when faith in man (mankind, manmade-, etc.) fail. Because I know they will fail, and Solomon's conclusion is a foundation for spreading the gospel.
A) If not for the reality of Jesus Christ, and the gospel in its entirety, I would be lost in an existential whirlpool. I honestly cannot imagine deriving any real hope, or joy, or purpose, if God was not real, sovereign, holy, and loving. Because He is all of those things, I cling to the hope I have. We live in a culture and era, wherein scientific and humanistic beliefs dominate the public forum. But, questions of hope, joy (separate from happiness), and purpose are not scientifically or humanly answered. Those questions require faith (which is where atheists will make religions out of secular principles), but the only faith which is proven, is faith in the LORD, through Jesus Christ. I want to be there with those answers, when faith in man (mankind, manmade-, etc.) fail. Because I know they will fail, and Solomon's conclusion is a foundation for spreading the gospel.
P) Father, You have already given me a spirit of boldness, so let Your Spirit encourage me now, to spread the beautiful gospel - especially with those who struggle with existential questions. Show me how to use Solomon's example, that all of the wisdom and knowledge available to man, will never give the purpose that people desire. Thank You, for the grace You have proven in my own life. Discipline me to be faithful and obedient. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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