November 21st, 2024
by Pastor Gary Moritz
by Pastor Gary Moritz
*This blog post was generated using church.tech from the talk that was preached for Reverse week 8
Have you ever found yourself asking, "What's the point of life?" or "What is God's will for my life?" You're not alone. These are questions that have puzzled humanity for centuries. But what if the answer is simpler than we think? King Solomon, in his reflective letter of Ecclesiastes, offers us profound wisdom on living life with the right focus. He urges us to reverse our thoughts on God and make Him the center of our lives. This isn't just about avoiding mistakes; it's about finding true fulfillment and purpose. So, how do we do that? Let's dive into Solomon's insights and discover how life makes sense when God is at the center.
Solomon's first piece of advice is to live generously. In Ecclesiastes 11, he challenges us to "send your bread on the surface of the water," a metaphor for living with an open hand and trusting God with the outcomes. Generosity is an act of faith, and while we may not always see immediate results, God uses our giving in unexpected ways. Jesus echoes this in Luke 6:38, reminding us that the measure we use will be measured back to us. It's not just about money; it's about the heart behind the giving. At City United, we believe in being a church that gives, not takes. Our Multiply campaign is an opportunity to activate your faith and make a tangible impact in our community and beyond.
Next, Solomon encourages us to embrace life's uncertainties. Life is unpredictable, and we can't control the outcomes. But we can be faithful in our efforts and trust God with the results. The Apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:6-7 to present our requests to God with thanksgiving, and His peace will guard our hearts. Our responsibility is faithfulness, not fruitfulness. So, how are you doing with your faithfulness? Are you trusting God with the uncertainties of life?
Solomon also tells us to live joyfully with responsibility. Life is a gift, and we should enjoy it while balancing joy with accountability. Solomon warns us not to let temporary pleasures derail our future. True joy comes from living in harmony with God's will. Jesus said in John 15:11 that His joy in us makes our joy complete. So, appreciate the simple moments and live with gratitude, but remember that our choices have consequences.
As we move to Ecclesiastes 12, Solomon emphasizes the importance of remembering God in our youth. He urges us to start with urgency, building a strong relationship with God early on. Spiritual growth takes time, and the earlier we start, the better equipped we'll be to face life's challenges. The author of Hebrews encourages us to encourage each other daily and not let our hearts be hardened by sin's deception. Don't wait to build your relationship with God; start today.
Finally, Solomon concludes with the ultimate purpose of life: fear God and keep His commandments. Life is empty without God, and only a life centered on Him has true meaning. Jesus made it clear that rejecting Him leads to judgment, but accepting Him brings forgiveness and grace. Solomon's last words remind us that life has one focused purpose: to honor God and follow His commandments. This is the key to a fulfilling life.
So, what steps will you take to make God the center of your life? Will you live generously, embrace uncertainties, and find joy in responsibility? Remember, life makes sense when God is at the center. Fear Him, follow Him, and find your fulfillment in Him.
Solomon's first piece of advice is to live generously. In Ecclesiastes 11, he challenges us to "send your bread on the surface of the water," a metaphor for living with an open hand and trusting God with the outcomes. Generosity is an act of faith, and while we may not always see immediate results, God uses our giving in unexpected ways. Jesus echoes this in Luke 6:38, reminding us that the measure we use will be measured back to us. It's not just about money; it's about the heart behind the giving. At City United, we believe in being a church that gives, not takes. Our Multiply campaign is an opportunity to activate your faith and make a tangible impact in our community and beyond.
Next, Solomon encourages us to embrace life's uncertainties. Life is unpredictable, and we can't control the outcomes. But we can be faithful in our efforts and trust God with the results. The Apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:6-7 to present our requests to God with thanksgiving, and His peace will guard our hearts. Our responsibility is faithfulness, not fruitfulness. So, how are you doing with your faithfulness? Are you trusting God with the uncertainties of life?
Solomon also tells us to live joyfully with responsibility. Life is a gift, and we should enjoy it while balancing joy with accountability. Solomon warns us not to let temporary pleasures derail our future. True joy comes from living in harmony with God's will. Jesus said in John 15:11 that His joy in us makes our joy complete. So, appreciate the simple moments and live with gratitude, but remember that our choices have consequences.
As we move to Ecclesiastes 12, Solomon emphasizes the importance of remembering God in our youth. He urges us to start with urgency, building a strong relationship with God early on. Spiritual growth takes time, and the earlier we start, the better equipped we'll be to face life's challenges. The author of Hebrews encourages us to encourage each other daily and not let our hearts be hardened by sin's deception. Don't wait to build your relationship with God; start today.
Finally, Solomon concludes with the ultimate purpose of life: fear God and keep His commandments. Life is empty without God, and only a life centered on Him has true meaning. Jesus made it clear that rejecting Him leads to judgment, but accepting Him brings forgiveness and grace. Solomon's last words remind us that life has one focused purpose: to honor God and follow His commandments. This is the key to a fulfilling life.
So, what steps will you take to make God the center of your life? Will you live generously, embrace uncertainties, and find joy in responsibility? Remember, life makes sense when God is at the center. Fear Him, follow Him, and find your fulfillment in Him.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the wisdom of Solomon and the reminder that life only makes sense when You are at the center. Help us to live generously, embrace uncertainties, and find joy in responsibility. Guide us to honor You in all we do and to keep Your commandments. May we find our true fulfillment in You alone. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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