Ecclesiastes 11-12

“Fear God and keep His commandments” (12:13).  The “preacher” of Ecclesiastes concludes his melancholy thoughts with this advice.  Despite our human capacity for knowledge, work, and achievement, we are not in control of our lives or the universe.  When we desperately try to be gods, we fail.  “He who watches the wind will not sow, and he who looks at the clouds will not reap … you do not know the activity of God who makes all things” (11:5). 

The good news is that when we live humbly, serving God and being grateful for each day (12:1), the present becomes holy and filled with joy.