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Life often becomes chaotic, and we may find ourselves thinking it’s just too crazy. Maybe it suddenly seems topsy-turvy.
Consider this comment from a powerful king: “There is an evil I have seen under the sun, as an error proceeding from the ruler; folly is set in great dignity while the rich sit in a lowly place. I have seen servants on horses, while princes walk on the ground like servants.” (Ecclesiastes 10:5-7) King Solomon was a very wealthy king, yet he too had questions when life seemed out of balance.
In the king’s world, princes were supposed to ride horses while their servants walked, but Solomon witnessed the reverse. Those who were supposed to serve were now ruling, and those who had been rulers were now the servants.
God made our body to serve the Spirit, but too often the body tries to master the Spirit. Appetites ride the horses, while the Spirit trudges along like a servant.
Money and material possessions were made to serve man, yet often man serves money and material things — we become slaves to our possessions.
I observed a while back that a large part of my life was busy acquiring things. Now, all I do is dust those things or care for and maintain those things.
King Solomon investigated life issues, things that people thought would bring satisfaction and happiness. He dug deep into education, career, success, life, competition, selfishness, power, possessions and religion.
His conclusion can be found in Ecclesiastes chapter 12. Verses 1 and 6 declare the most important deduction: “Remember your Creator ... remember Him.”
About life itself? See verse 7: “Dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it [life].”
Solomon’s summary is found in Ecclesiastes 12:13-14: “The conclusion, when all has been heard, is fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.”
Everyone evaluates, as did Solomon. We all seek understanding and have similar questions. Do I matter? Does what I do matter? What is the outcome? What is the final evaluation?
King Solomon’s search helps me find balance and meaning. I think we can all benefit from his struggle and insights.
Until next week,
Anita
Onarecker, an Elgin resident, author of “Divine Appointment: Our Journey to the Bridge” and minister to women and adults, earned a Master of Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2007.
