It is all vain, and it is good
It is all vain, and it is good.
If we live in riches, it is vain. If we live in sorrow, it is vain. If we live in the future, it is vain. If we live in the past, it is vain. If we live in our appearance, it is vain. If we live for our position, it is vain. If we live in wisdom, it is vain.
Solomon found this out after a life of chasing the things of this world. Unlike most, it seemed Solomon caught everything he chased, amassing great wisdom and fortune. Of anyone, he would know the vanity of life. In Ecclesiastes, he repeats the words, it is meaningless.
The recognition that temporal things are vain changes things. Understanding that all is vain is an incredible gift, as one realizes that there is purpose in all things. You are able to flip the script. All that was vain becomes meaningful. All that was vain becomes a meaningful, purpose-filled life.
The words of Christ give meaning to a vanity-filled life. He makes riches, sorrow, the future, the past, our position, meaningful. In every situation, He is good.
As we embark on a new year, making goals and resolutions, I encourage you to attack your plan with eternity in mind. Any gifts you have, whatever your situation, recognize the vanity. This recognition of vanity will lead you to purpose, as you use all for Him.
Impact others. Live generously.