Discovering Meaning in Ecclesiastes Wisdom

Life often feels like a puzzle with missing pieces. We chase success, pleasure, and knowledge, yet a deep sense of emptiness lingers. If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone. The book of Ecclesiastes offers a spiritual compass for those searching for true meaning beyond the fleeting things of this world.

As Pastor Hery Alonso of RiseUp Outreach Church, I want to walk with you through Ecclesiastes, a book that speaks honestly about life’s struggles and points us toward God’s lasting purpose.

The ancient wisdom of Ecclesiastes captured in a scroll

The Honest Struggle with Life’s Meaning

Ecclesiastes opens with a raw observation: “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 1:2, NKJV). This phrase captures the frustration many feel when they realize that worldly achievements and pleasures don’t satisfy the soul. The writer, traditionally believed to be King Solomon, shares his journey through wealth, wisdom, and pleasure, only to find them ultimately empty.

This honesty is refreshing. It acknowledges the struggle without pretending life’s challenges don’t exist. Many of us chase after things that promise happiness but leave us feeling hollow. Ecclesiastes invites us to pause and reflect on what truly matters.

Finding Joy in God’s Gift of Life

Despite the repeated refrain of “vanity,” Ecclesiastes also encourages us to find joy in the simple gifts God provides. In chapter 3, verse 13, it says, “Also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor—it is the gift of God” (NKJV). This verse reminds us that life’s pleasures, when received with gratitude, are blessings from God.

This means that joy is not found in excess or selfish indulgence but in appreciating the everyday moments—sharing a meal, resting after work, enjoying relationships. These are not meaningless but part of God’s design for a fulfilling life.

Wisdom to Navigate Life’s Seasons

Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us, “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven” (NKJV). Life is full of changes—joy and sorrow, growth and loss, beginnings and endings. Recognizing this helps us accept life’s rhythms without despair.

Wisdom in Ecclesiastes teaches us to embrace each season with faith, trusting that God’s timing is perfect. When we understand that life’s ups and downs are part of a bigger plan, we can face challenges with hope rather than fear.

The Fear of God as the Foundation of Meaning

The book concludes with a powerful statement: “Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all” (Ecclesiastes 12:13, NKJV). This means that true meaning and purpose come from a relationship with God, grounded in reverence and obedience.

When we align our lives with God’s will, we find a foundation that no worldly success can shake. This fear is not about terror but about deep respect and trust in God’s wisdom and love.

Practical Steps to Apply Ecclesiastes Today

• Reflect on your priorities: Are you chasing things that leave you feeling empty? Take time to evaluate what truly satisfies your soul.

• Practice gratitude: Find joy in the simple blessings God gives daily, like family, work, and rest.

• Embrace life’s seasons: Accept change as part of God’s plan and trust His timing.

• Build your relationship with God: Spend time in prayer, worship, and reading Scripture to deepen your faith.

  
  

If you find yourself wrestling with life’s meaning or longing for a deeper connection with God, know that you are not alone. At RiseUp Outreach Church, we welcome you to join us as we explore God’s Word together and support one another in faith and hope.