Conviction #9999

Ecclesiastes may be one of the most depressing yet relevant books of scripture we've talked about thus far during church.  All the work we do, the knowledge we gain, honor that we obtain, "everything under the sun" is meaningless apart from  God.  We had a pretty fabulous and convicting message this morning on being an overachiever, secluding oneself, popularity, and community.  I can relate to Solomon's "solemn" outlook on life when I struggle to maintain focus on Jesus, get distracted by achievements or attention, and intentionally separate myself from my village.  Truth is our world is desperately lonely.  Even those of us who may be married or surrounded by close friends and family can be swayed to feel set apart.  We can also intentionally set ourselves apart in an effort to be a standout, not vulnerable, or focused on some type of material acquisition.  Our short little passage was a clear reminder that folks were not designed to operate apart from one another.  We all desire love from each other (whether you like it or not can only happen through Christ) and (whether we like it or not ) need spiritual accountability to keep our focus as it should be.

7 Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun: 8 There is one alone, without companion: He has neither son nor brother. Yet there is no end to all his labors, Nor is his eye satisfied with riches. But he never asks, “For whom do I toil and deprive myself of good?” This also is vanity and a grave misfortune. 9 Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up. 11 Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken. 13 Better a poor and wise youth Than an old and foolish king who will be admonished no more. 14 For he comes out of prison to be king, Although he was born poor in his kingdom. 15 I saw all the living who walk under the sun; They were with the second youth who stands in his place. 16 There was no end of all the people over whom he was made king; Yet those who come afterward will not rejoice in him. Surely this also is vanity and grasping for the wind.