READ: Ecclesiastes 1,2; Psalms 53; Romans 15
SCRIPTURE: Ecclesiastes 1:2 “Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. Utterly
meaningless! Everything is meaningless.”
OBSERVATION: In India, the
word “maya,” which means illusion, is well-known in various religious philosophies.
The explanation for maya varies
depending on its context. However, in general, the concept of “maya” denotes
the ignorance of the truth. Indian Philosophical
teachers believe maya ceases to exist when knowledge comes.
In Ecclesiastes, it seems that the
author starts with his conclusion about life. The word “Meaningless” occurs about
35 times in the book. The author distresses that everything under the sun is “meaningless,
a chasing after the wind” (v.14). Many Christians consider that Ecclesiastes is
a book of pessimism as it repeatedly refers to “meaningless.” We may wonder
whether the author says that wisdom is of no use. However, when we read the
scripture, we understand that the real wisdom that makes our life happy can be
found only in God and his word. As Solomon repeatedly says, “The fear of the
Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is
understanding.” (Pro.1:7; 9:10). The Ecclesiastes does not speak against the wisdom
that comes from God. Instead, he warns us concerning human wisdom, which gives
no place to God, and explains the vanity of life when one entirely relies on
human wisdom. James encourages us to ask God for wisdom. He says, “the wisdom
that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate,
submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere” (James 1:5;
3:17). Philosophical theories are interesting to hear and may help us to understand
the complexities of life. But they do not offer a solution to our life problems.
The wisdom that comes from God helps us understand our life’s purpose and gives
insights and guidance to make our life useful for all.
APPLICATION: I need to be careful
about false and human wisdom that leads me away from God. Human wisdom sometimes leads to grief and sorrow. I should remember that “The wisdom of this
world is foolishness in God’s sight” (1 Cor.3:19). Until I find the purpose of
my life in Christ, my life is meaningless.
PRAYER: Father God, thank
you for helping me to understand the blessedness of godly wisdom. Jesus, you
are my wisdom. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to help people to know the meaning of
their life in Christ. Lord, help me to live wise and use my time wisely for
your glory. Amen.
- Arputharaj Samuel
+91 9538328573
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