Ecclesiastes 2:4-11, 12:13

“I increased my achievements. I built houses  and planted vineyards  for myself. I made gardens and parks for myself and planted every kind of fruit tree in them…I also amassed silver and gold for myself, and the treasure of kings and provinces.  I gathered male and female singers for myself,  and many concubines, the delights of men….So I became great and surpassed all who were before me in Jerusalem…All that my eyes desired, I did not deny them.  I did not refuse myself any pleasure…

When I considered all that I had accomplished and what I had labored to achieve, I found everything to be futile and a pursuit of the wind. There was nothing to be gained under the sun. ”‬ Ecclesiastes‬ ‭2‬:‭4-11‬ ‭CSB‬‬

“When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: fear God  and keep his commands, because this is for all  humanity. ”
‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭12‬:‭13‬ ‭CSB‬‬

There is a story of a young, creative and capable man who started a company in his garage with a couple of friends. Their invention was so innovative that it eventually helped start a new industry. Over time the company grew to be a multibillion dollar business and so did his personal fortune.

The young man was featured in magazines, often quoted, and invited to speak at university graduation ceremonies. His company served as his personal creative outlet; whatever he dreamed up, his team of bright young professionals made it happen. He was on top of the world.

Being on top of the world, left little time for anything or anyone else. His relationships with others were few, superficial, and tools to promote his stature.

Then one day he wasn’t feeling well. He went to the doctor and had some tests and scans run. Within a week his entire life changed. He was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer that had already spread to other organs.

His cancer treatments kept him at home for extended periods of time. This gave him plenty of time to reflect on his life. Yes, he had achieved great accomplishments, wealth, fame and everything his heart had desired. But as his health deteriorated with no one at his side, he had to ask the question, “What did it all mean?”

Solomon had it all. In modern vernacular, he had all the Cash, Crib and Cars (CCC), and Wine, Women and Song (WWS) a man could dream of. But near the end of his life, he realized: “I found everything to be futile and a pursuit of the wind.”

In other words, Solomon discovered this equation of life without a pursuit of God:

CCC + WWS = 0

What’s your equation of life? Are you investing in things that will eventually leave you empty? Are your priorities driven by self centered passions, i.e., your carnal nature? What are the treasures of your heart? (Matthew 6:19-21)

Reevaluate the priorities of your life and make sure the sum of your efforts yield an eternal reward.

FG + O = ER

Fear God + Obedience = Eternal Reward