Ecclesiastes 1:12-2:26 Chasing the Wind, Solomon’s Experience

Chasing the Wind: Solomon's Experience

Ecclesiastes 1:12-2:26

 

The Irony of Wisdom (1:12-18)

•      Solomon states that he pursued wisdom

–     A task given to all humanity by God

•      But he found the job to be a grievous

–     Unlike the ancient philosophers who stated that seeking wisdom was the highest calling

•      The more wisdom he had, the less meaningful life was seen to be

–     Wisdom brings knowledge of problems

–     But, also the knowledge that many problems cannot be solved

•      Therefore wisdom actually produced vexation for Solomon

 

Solomon’s Pursuits (v. 2:1-11)

•      He chased pleasure (v. 1-3)

•      He toiled to build great estates and wealth (v. 4-10)

•      And he found temporary enjoyment in these things

•      But they did not truly fulfill him (v. 11)

 

Solomon’s Wisdom (2:12-17)

•      So he turned his attention to gaining wisdom

–     And found that it was better than folly

•      Folly:  Human behavior apart from God

•      Wisdom seeks truth/light

–     And thus seeks God

–     But also finds the truth that the fate of the wise is the same as the foolish: Death!

 

Solomon’s Legacy (2:18-26)

•      He realized that all his hard work would be left to others after his death

-   And they may not act so wisely with it

•      So he concluded that enjoying the fruit of one’s labor is wisdom (v. 24-25)

-   A true gift from God

•      Thus, pleasing God is what produces lasting joy (v. 26)

 

 

So What?

•      Are we seeking fulfillment in our relationship with God?

•      Or are we, like Solomon did for a time, seeking it in pleasure or toiling for wealth that will not last?

 

Meditation Verse: Ecc. 2:26