Our scripture this morning is Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 (NLT).
That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty. God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad.
Scholars tell us the Book of Ecclesiastes was written by King Solomon, who asked God for wisdom: “Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong” (1 Kings 3:9). In this book he points to the fact that our connection with the Lord is the most important thing in our lives and only through a relationship with Him can we be made whole.
He wraps it up fairly specifically – “fear God and obey His commands, for this is everyone’s duty.” It doesn’t matter who we are, when in history we live or what resources we have, we all need God’s love and care, and we all need to share that love with everyone. This is our real purpose, no matter what other things we add to our lives.
God wants us all back as part of His loving family, regardless of how we have failed before. He sent Jesus to teach us this and show very plainly how He loves us and how we are to love one another. If we get this right, everything else becomes much easier.
Gracious God, in Your mercy You made a way for us to be saved. Bless us to go in Your name to share the Good News everywhere. Amen.
