Ecclesiastes 1:14 –  I have seen all the works which have been done under the sun, and behold, all is vanity and striving after wind.

As I read, prayed, and mused on the Word of God today, I was challenged by the Word and Spirit of God.  Many are “striving after the wind,” chasing a life that does not exist.   In Ecclesiastes 1, Solomon offers a powerful reminder: “Time marches on with or without us.”   In verses 8-9, he reminds us that we are not originators, only users. All originates from God!

In Ecclesiastes 2:24-26, he reminds us that there are no answers for the paradoxes of life.  Therefore, we should live life to the fullest every day.   He drives that point home in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, reminding us that there is a time for everything and that timing is not ours to decide.   In verse 14, we realize the eternality of God’s works.   In verse 22, the revelation that sets us free is: be content where you are with what you have.  Be at peace within and choose to rejoice. It is a choice!

Ecclesiastes 5:10 is revelatory. “He who loves (longs for or fantasizes about) money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income. This, too, is vanity.”   Then, in Ecclesiastes 9:2, we are reminded that everyone dies!  Therefore, focus on the eternal and our assignment, not some what-if or when. Live now!

It would benefit us to read, study, and meditate on 2 Peter 1:3-11. There, we see what God has granted or graced to us and discover that by or through them, we are able to partake of the divine nature!

Jesus is coming back.  Delay is an opportunity for doubt to gain a foothold. But if we focus on the reason for the delay, doubt is destroyed.  The reason is (vv 8-9).   God does not want even one soul to perish, but for everyone to come to repentance. That shifts the focus from escape or even promotion to purpose and mission. Our primary purpose is to share the message of the kingdom with people and lead them to freedom.

Now is the time.  The assignment is the focus.  Nothing is to be allowed to distract or delay our pursuit of His purpose and call.  Nothing!   Anything that distracts or delays our pursuit of His purpose must be repented of and cast aside. Seek ye first the kingdom of God and HIS righteousness.  He is our purpose, provision, and power!

LORD, help us to pursue you, not strive after the wind of fantasy!