Recently I was reading the Bible and I came across this verse written by the wise king Solomon: “Anyone who is among the living has hope — even a live dog is better off than a dead lion!” (Ecclesiastes 9:4, NIV)

It’s so true isn’t it?! It doesn’t matter if a person is rich or famous or powerful – when they die it’s of no use. Solomon goes on to say (in summary) that since we’re all going to die, we should endeavour to enjoy the simple things in life. A good meal and quality time with a partner or friends. Whatever activities we participate in, do them to the best of our ability, so we can get some satisfaction from life.

It reminded me a little bit of the advice in current day books designed to help overcome worry and stress – being present or living in the moment. As Solomon said, “there is nothing new under the sun.”! (Ecclesiastes 1:9, NIV)

If you read all of Ecclesiastes, you can detect a level of frustration there. The NIV translation has Solomon using the word ‘meaningless’ quite a lot. He points out a number of things in life that really upset him – foolish people having positions of authority, wise but poor people being ignored, things going wrong by chance for people who don’t deserve it and most of all, growing old and dying.

Solomon had the wisdom and wealth to try everything this life has to offer – but he could do nothing about mortality.

So in this synopsis of his life, which Solomon uses to try and impart his knowledge and advice to the reader, he finishes like this: “Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.” (Ecclesiastes 12:3, NIV)

Why did Solomon conclude this way? Because he knew only God can do something about our mortality. The rest of that story can also be found in God’s word – the Bible. What have you got to lose?