CONCLUDING WORDS OF WISDOM
“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecclesiastes 12: 13).
King Solomon reigned in Jerusalem after David his father. He was young and tender when he took over the throne. Solomon knew it would be very difficult for anybody of his age to rule the great people of God without wisdom. He therefore asked for wisdom and understanding to govern Israel. God was very kind to him. The Bible reveals that God gave him wisdom and understanding such that he excelled the wisdom of all the countries of the east (1Kings 4: 29-31). Solomon’s wisdom is exemplified in the writing of the books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. Scholars who compile reports or present research findings will always come out with thrilling conclusions of their discoveries. Today’s text reveals the conclusion of Solomon’s findings from his great venture of wisdom.
There can never be any true conclusion from any exploration than what Solomon has for young people today. According to him, youths should, “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man”. It is evident in his introductory counsel in this concluding chapter of the book that his wise words are primarily addressed to the youth. For instance, this wise king, from his wealth of wisdom, advised the youth to, “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not” (Ecclesiastes 12: 1). Youngsters who do not have time for God will surely have time to serve the devil. There is no better time to surrender one’s life to God other than in the youth days. A life given to God is safe and secured in Christ. There is a bright future for every one that lives his life to please God in righteousness and holiness. Eternal darkness however awaits the children of the night.
Challenge: “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth
Prayer: Heavenly Father, endow me with wisdom to live my life for you from my youthful days.