King Solomon, though blessed by God with great wisdom, became obsessed with the question, “What is the meaning of life?” He pursued one thing after another: wealth, women, and grand projects like building extraordinary gardens and houses. He studied the universe; and sought to grow in the knowledge of complex physical and sociological matters. He poured himself into experiencing the pleasures of wine, music, food, and purchasing extravagant treasures. With each pursuit, his heart was empty, and he felt his life was meaningless.
One thought deeply troubled Solomon’s spirit ─ no matter how people live, in the end, they die. King Solomon was despairing due to his uncertainty of what happens to people after they die (See Ecclesiastes 3:20-21). Though he hoped his spirit would live on and be in the presence of God, he did not have this assurance, thus at times feelings of hopelessness overwhelmed him.
Perhaps you too are struggling with feelings of meaninglessness. When the troubles of this world overwhelm us, or we experience mental or physical illness, we can begin to question many things about our lives. This led King Solomon to even question his eternal life. If this is part of your struggle, take courage sisters and brothers, the Lord promises us eternal life through the sacrificial blood of Christ.
A Moment to reflect:
Can you relate to King Solomon in his pursuit to find meaning and purpose in so many things here in earth? How so?
Have you personally struggled before with feelings on meaninglessness? How did you navigate through that time? Or perhaps, how are you navigating through it?
As you consider these things, look to the cross. How does the work of Jesus offer hope in the midst of these feelings?
By Sue Corl - an excerpt from For Such A Time As This: Walking Through Crisis
*A moment to reflect is added for this post.
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