Daily Devotions
Ecclesiastes
Introduction
Text: Ecclesiastes
WISDOM LITERATURE
The Book of Ecclesiastes is in the category of books called, “Wisdom Literature”. (The other books include Job, Psalms, Proverbs and the Song of Solomon.)
THE WRITER OF ECCLESIATES
Solomon was one of the sage-writers. The contribution of these writers was to offer significant insights as to the meaning of life!
THE EXPERIENCES OF LIFE
Solomon was blessed with gifts that some would be envious of. He had position, power and immense wealth. Many were his experiences of life and he found wisdom amidst all that life offered him.
A FEELING OF FUTILITY
The writer of Ecclesiastes struggled greatly with a thought that he could not find an answer to! There was a terrible sense of futility that literally plagued him. It was expressed in this statement.
“‘Vanity of vanities,’ says the Preacher;
‘Vanity of vanities, all is vanity.'”
Ecclesiastes 1:2
What plagued him was the thought that death seemed to end life in the most ultimate way! If death was the ultimate end, what would be the meaning of life?
THE BOOK OF ECCLESIASTES
The writer sought to share with his readers his journey to discover the meaning of life! His approach was full of the following characteristics:
1. Candour
He did not want glib answers. He faced his feelings candidly.
2. Challenge
He was greatly challenged to find answers to his quest to find meaning in life.
3. Courage
He was courageous as he fought through his feelings of dark despair.
4. Change
He was prepared to make whatever changes that may be needed.
FINDING THE ANSWER
Ecclesiastes ended on a good note! The writer knew that he must include God in his paradigm of life! Let us read Ecclesiastes with vim and vigour. Let us also read this book humbly and prayerfully. May we come to the same conclusion as the writer of Ecclesiastes.