The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. - Ecclesiastes 12:13 (ESV)
It is important to pay attention to the person talking. When reading, especially with Scripture, voice plays an important role in interpretation. The book of Ecclesiastes is an excellent example of this.
For chapters, the voice of the Preacher has been giving advice. Now we switch to the voice of the author/narrator; a person, I argue, that speaks from the perspective of God. There is quite a bit that can be said about the final verses of Ecclesiastes, but I was struck by one point - the centrality of God.
My biggest issues aren't taxes, marriage, and vocation. The greatest issue before me is and always will be God. Sure these other things are important and my interaction in them stems from my interaction with God, but the Lord remains at the forefront.
In the search for meaning, pleasure, and peace, the Preacher investigates every avenue. Our author doesn't leave us in the dark - our answer in these matters must begin with the Lord.
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