THE BOTTOM LINE

READING: ECCLESIASTES 8:9-14

Verse 13: “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all.”

Sometimes there appears to be prosperity in the affairs of evildoers. This can be difficult to understand at times even for mature Christians. Today’s verse speaks to that situation. It encourages Believers to concentrate on the other side of the coin in order to avoid that difficulty. Instead of difficulty, verse 12 presents the option to accept a grand fundamental conclusion. This great conclusion is that we must give full regard to God and His commandments - not to the conditions of evildoers. Most of this chapter of scripture emphasizes that we encounter much in life that we don’t  understand. We are sure to experience difficulties if we become caught up in those matters that exceed our understanding. However, this verse of the chapter points out something we can very well understand. It is this very understanding that allows us to avoid not only these, but all difficulties. All that we need, is simply accounted for by fearing the Lord and keeping His commandments. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. Why is verse 13 the conclusion of the whole matter?

2. What causes people to become distracted from this great conclusion?