Keeping God First

So remember your Creator in the days of your youth— before the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you will say, “I have no pleasure in them”; before the sun and the light of the moon and the stars grow dark, and the clouds disappear after the rain; when those who keep watch over the house begin to tremble, and the virile men begin to stoop over, and the grinders begin to cease because they grow few, and those who look through the windows grow dim, and the doors along the street are shut; when the sound of the grinding mill grows low, and one is awakened by the sound of a bird, and all their songs grow faint, and they are afraid of heights and the dangers in the street; the almond blossoms grow white, and the grasshopper drags itself along, and the caper berry shrivels up— because man goes to his eternal home, and the mourners go about in the streets— before the silver cord is removed, or the golden bowl is broken, or the pitcher is shattered at the well, or the water wheel is broken at the cistern— and the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the life’s breath returns to God who gave it. (Ec 12:1-7)

 

Solomon paints a beautiful picture of a difficult time of life- old age.  Why is this necessary? Because he wants young people realize that life is fleeting, and they should live it properly- in the fear of the Lord.  His vivid description makes you think he is old as he writes.  Some of the features of old age he lists are failing eyesight, loss of strength, physical frailty, loss of hearing, trouble sleeping, loss of sexual drive, fear, boredom and apathy.  People at this phase of life are headed back to the earth, and their breath returns to God who gave it.  We often say, "ashes to ashes, dust to dust." The command is clear, "Remember your Creator in the days of your youth."  And he is not talking about using your memory, but rather living under the commands and lordship of your Creator.  

 

This certainly seems to be the main point of Ecclesiastes.  As an old man he is warning, challenging, and encouraging the young men of his kingdom to put God first while they are still young.  Common wisdom would say, "You have plenty of time for religion when you grow old, sow your wild oats now, when you are young."  Solomon says the exact opposite.  "Don't wait until you are old, do it now."  A life lived to the glory of God is the best life possible.  Don't waste your youth on vanity.  All the typical pursuits of man are futile.  They bring no lasting satisfaction, and they accomplish nothing.  There is no meaning and purpose when we live our lives separated from the God who made us.  He knows us best and knows what is best for us.  Living under His guidance is the wisest and most satisfying way for a young person to live. And that goes for older people, also.

 

Solomon has repeatedly told the young people to enjoy themselves. But that enjoyment has boundaries.  While they are living life to the fullest, they should remember their Creator.  They do not want to ignore Him and His commands.  These commands give all people the guidelines they need for their well-being and the well-being of the societies they live in.  Wanton disregard for biblical morals is a recipe for disaster, for individuals and cultures.

 

And think of how much can be accomplished by young people living to the glory of God.  His purposes can be realized by their energy and faith.  And there is much to do in His kingdom.  The fulfillment of the Great Commission depends on the diligence and sacrifices of our young men and women.  We are all called to be salt and light to the world around us.  Young people have their whole lives ahead of them, and so much more time to invest. 

 

What a fitting conclusion to his expose life "under the sun."  So much about this fallen world seems to make no sense- it is futile.  We find little meaning or purpose, oppression of the weak, injustice, corruption of government, and unrighteousness at every turn.  How can a person redeem their experience in a world such as this?  By remembering their Creator while they are young.  By putting God first in their life.  By acknowledging His sovereignty and living each day with gratefulness for the gift of life.  And by enjoying the blessings He gives.  Sure, it is not a perfect world, but we serve a perfect heavenly father.

 

All generous giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or the slightest hint of change. (James 1:17)