Confessions of a Cynic
In the final paragraph of Chapter 3, Solomon is alone with his thoughts. He admits his disillusionment and confusion.
Struggling through reading the lesser-known Old Testament passages and long prophetic oracles may seem to have little relevance to everyday 21st-century life. But there are important things we can learn from the Old Testament. First, the New Testament is based on the Old Testament. Second, the Old Testament reveals the character of God. Third, the Old Testament has transformational power. Its message transcends time, geography, and culture. It speaks to everyone, everywhere, in every situation.
In the final paragraph of Chapter 3, Solomon is alone with his thoughts. He admits his disillusionment and confusion.
The interlude in Ecclesiastes 3:11-15, though brief, brings into perspective several things Solomon had missed in his search for purpose and direction.
While we are always on the brink of change, Ecclesiastes 3 draws out two questions that must be addressed.
With disillusionment and despair casting ever-enlarging shadows across his path, Solomon begins to intensify his reactions in Ecclesiastes 2:12-26.
Solomon fell for the sensual lure of self-gratification. He landed in the pit of emptiness.
Life to many people is nothing more than chasing excitement to combat monotony. Such is the bold, dreary message of Ecclesiastes 1.
Ecclesiastes is not only the story of one man's experience but of all who attempt to live their lives apart from God.
Fathers are mentioned at least 26 times in this famous book of wisdom, and interestingly, each time it's a positive reference. We need a vote in favour of fatherhood.
In 1 Kings 19, Elijah is disillusioned and downcast. How did God deal with His broken servant? Elijah's story helps us understand how we can handle those days when we, too, get discouraged.
The world needs a return to integrity, not sinless perfection but absolute honesty and an absence of duplicity. Impossible? Let's let Daniel's life answer that for us.