What matters? What really matters?
This past Sunday, I chose Ecclesiastes 1:9 as my scripture to memorize this week. In this verse, Solomon relates, “The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun” (KJV).
You might ask why I would choose this verse to record to memory. The answer to that question comes from 2 Timothy 3:16 in which Paul states, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (KJV). Not only can we find inspiration in the Bible, but also through His Word, God gives us direction, teaches us, and lights our path.
I recently began a study of the Old Testament Book of 1 Kings. When I came to 1 Kings, Chapter Seven, and read of how King Solomon spent 13 years constructing his palace with all its ornate details, I recalled the verses from Ecclesiastes 1 where Solomon examines the meaning of life. And, in verse 9, Solomon speaks of how nothing is “new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9 KJV).
Isn’t that how we feel as we focus on things on this earth (“under the sun”)? (Ecclesiastes 1:9 KJV). Either we find ourselves living the same day over and over, unable to get ahead, or if we do get ahead, it is not enough. We are still not satisfied.
This takes me back to why I chose this verse to memorize. I was recently asked about my goals for 2025, and I had no answer. It seemed the things that came to mind had no lasting purpose. But, let’s remember God’s Words are here to correct and direct us and keep us in line to accomplish His purpose for our lives. Clearly, this verse is a reminder of where our purpose does not lie… of the resolutions that will never satisfy the meaning of life.
As I pondered the words from Ecclesiastes, I contemplated the scripture from 1 Kings 3 where Solomon asked God for wisdom. God was so pleased that Solomon had asked for wisdom instead of wealth and status that He also gave Solomon great riches. But through that wealth, it seems that Solomon gained so much more wisdom that God led him to share. All that money did not bring him happiness or fulfillment.
In Ecclesiastes 12:13, Solomon concludes, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (KJV).
Our focus should not be under the sun… but above. We should be resolving to live our lives for God. That is what matters.
