Living Well in a World of Futility
In a society obsessed with wellness, we often find ourselves chasing after an elusive ideal of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. But what if true wellness goes beyond these surface-level pursuits? What if the key to living well lies in understanding the limitations of our earthly existence and embracing a wisdom that transcends our temporary lives?
The ancient book of Ecclesiastes, written thousands of years ago, offers profound insights into this question. It presents a sobering view of life “under the sun” – a phrase repeated throughout the text to emphasise our earthly perspective. The author, often referred to as “the Preacher,” describes life as “vanity” or “meaningless,” using the Hebrew word “Hebel”, which, as we have seen throughout this study, can also be translated as “vapour” or “mist.” This imagery paints a picture of life as fleeting and elusive, like trying to grasp water in our hands.
So, how do we live wisely in a futile world? The Preacher in Ecclesiastes offers several key insights.
Recognise the limitations of wisdom.
While wisdom is valuable, it has its limits. The Preacher states, “For in much wisdom is much vexation, and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow” (Ecclesiastes 1:18). This doesn’t mean we should avoid seeking wisdom, but rather understand that even the wisest among us cannot fully comprehend or control life’s mysteries.
Confront the reality of death.
One of the most striking themes in Ecclesiastes is the inevitability of death. The Preacher reminds us that “the same event happens to the righteous and the wicked” (Ecclesiastes 9:2). Death is the great equaliser, coming to the rich and poor, the wise and foolish alike. While this may seem morbid, there’s wisdom in confronting our mortality. As the text states, “It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, for this is the end of all mankind, and the living will lay it to heart” (Ecclesiastes 7:2).
Reflecting on death can bring clarity and perspective to our lives. It reminds us of the preciousness of each moment and the importance of living purposefully.
Embrace the consolations of life.
Despite its sombre tone, Ecclesiastes doesn’t advocate for despair. Instead, it encourages us to find joy in life’s simple pleasures. The Preacher advises his students to embrace the consolations of life:
- Find contentment: “Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart, for God has already approved what you do” (Ecclesiastes 9:7).
- Seek comfort: “Let your garments be always white. Let not oil be lacking on your head” (Ecclesiastes 9:8).
- Cherish companionship: “Enjoy life with the wife whom you love, all the days of your vain life that he has given you under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 9:9).
- Live with courage: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might” (Ecclesiastes 9:10).
These consolations are not mere distractions from life’s futility but gifts from God that we receive with gratitude. They remind us to live fully in the present and appreciate each day as it comes.
Hope beyond the grave.
While Ecclesiastes primarily focuses on earthly existence, it hints at something more significant. The Preacher acknowledges that “God has put eternity into man’s heart” (Ecclesiastes 3:11), suggesting a longing for something beyond this temporal world.
This longing finds its fulfilment in the person of Jesus Christ. The New Testament reveals Jesus as the ultimate answer to the futility described in Ecclesiastes. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus offers hope beyond the grave and purpose in the present.
The apostle Paul, writing in 1 Corinthians 15, proclaims Christ’s victory over death: “Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” (1 Corinthians 15:54-55). This triumph transforms how we view our earthly existence. While we still face mortality, we can live with the assurance that death is not the end for those who trust in Christ.
Let us embrace the wisdom of Ecclesiastes as we learn to live well, with purpose, joy, and gratitude. May we live each day fully, wisely, and with an eye toward eternity and the end of futility.
Listen to Dave Miers’ sermon ‘Ecclesiastes 6:10-9:12 – Wisdom Only Gets You So Far’ in our series THE END OF FUTILITY: