Ecclesiastes 3

“I have seen the task God has given humanity to keep us occupied.  He has made everything suited to its time; also, He has given human beings awareness of eternity, but in such a way that they can’t fully comprehend, from beginning to end, the things He does.  Know that there is nothing better for them to do than to be happy and enjoy themselves as long as they live.  Still, the fact that everyone can eat and drink and enjoy the good that results from all his work is a gift from God.  I know that whatever God does will last forever; there is nothing to add or subtract from it; and God has done it so that people will fear Him.”  Ecclesiastes 3:10-14 (CJB)

Humanity is a collection of people under grace.  That is not to say that everyone on earth follows Jesus and is saved.  I am simply saying that whenever sinful people are in clear view of the all-seeing Holy God, it is only by His grace and mercy that they remain un-judged and alive.  Solomon knew this quite well.  In today’s passage, he observed the simple fact that a person can “eat and drink and enjoy the good results from all his work” is due to God’s grace, His gift to both believer and unbeliever.

So, why is God so gracious?  Why does He delay judgment on the earth?  Because He wants people to choose Him, to believe in Him, or as the Bible puts it: to FEAR Him.

“The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness.  He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)

And what, exactly, does it mean to “fear” God?  It means to honor, respect, worship, and revere Him.  Much more than the everyday pedestrian “respect” we may give another person, to “fear” the Lord is to acknowledge that He is the Creator and we are creatures; He is Lord, and we are slaves.  His Way is the only way, and any course corrections we might make in order to deviate from His way would be errant and never lead us to a right relationship with Him.  Fearing God is foundational to our salvation, joy, and success.

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Proverbs 1:7 (NKJV)

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever.”  Psalm 111:10 (NKJV)

Fearing the Lord carries the attitude which proclaims, “This may not feel right, but because I trust God and believe His Word, I will live according to His instruction and in the hope of His promises, given to all who faithfully follow Him.”  In fact, today’s passage claims that mankind cannot fully comprehend eternity; therefore, to fear God is also to faithfully admit that eternity lies in His hands.  His alone is the power to eternally save or destroy.  Yet, He chooses to extend forgiveness.  Will you choose Him?