Food for Thought: Finding Meaning in Life

The book of Ecclesiastes is often cited as a source of wisdom in terms of finding meaning in life. Some Bible scholars however, find the book contradictory and in sharp contrast to the teachings in Proverbs and say that the author of Ecclesiastes was simply responding to some of the beliefs of his time and was not really dispensing wisdom. He seemed to be saying that wisdom (as he saw it) was not a gift from God, as it is portrayed in the book of proverbs where it seems to be the source of power to save people from evil (Proverbs 2). The Proverbs version of wisdom is purported to provide long life, good health and prosperity (Proverbs 4). The author of Ecclesiastes, on the other hand, seems to imply that wisdom does not give us control over our lives, but that certain things just happen, each in its own season (Ecclesiastes 3).

How then are we to ascertain which is correct and of use in discerning how to find meaning in our own lives. Wisdom vs. Folly is one of the themes in Ecclesiastes. In that sense, it is just common sense to know that given a choice, acting wisely is preferable to acting foolishly. In that same sense, knowledge is preferable to ignorance and reward is preferable to punishment. Finding meaning and fulfillment then may come from a combination of experience, edification and grace.

We learn from experience what helps us feel most rewarded and content. We learn from others who teach us what they find most meaningful, and we learn what God has in mind for us through His word and what He blesses. What gives one person’s life the most meaning may differ from what another finds most meaningful. Therefore, it seems to me that we each have to find what gives our life the most purpose and satisfaction.

For example, one person might find great gratification in their job, while another may find their job abhorrent, other than on payday. One person might find great happiness and contentment in their relationships with family and friends, while another may have problems with relationships with people and find that God is their only refuge. Some people might find great joy in helping others, while others find that they actually feel blessed to receive the help they need in their difficult circumstances.

“Remember your leaders, who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.” Hebrews 13:7