AM Scripture Reading: Ecclesiastes 1.12-18

This Morning’s Speak:        Brent T. Willey

AGAINST THE WIND

Ecclesiastes 1.14

Introduction:

1. “The struggle for mankind for happiness has been a constant and engrossing one for centuries, probably since the advent of man on this earthly planet. Yet as we look about in this year of advanced civilization, we see unhappiness all around. In fact, there are those who say that as civilization continues, the woes and unhappiness of man increase.” [Forward by Dr. Clarence Bellinger; How To Live With Yourself, by Murray Banks, M.D.]

2. In his search for the meaning of life, Solomon concluded: “I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and indeed, all is vanity and grasping for the wind” (Eccl. 1.14).

3. The power of the wind has both negative & positive effects: running against the wind, or, running with the wind?

I.RUNNING AGAINST THE WIND

1. The power of the wind. (Job 21.18; 27.21-22; 30.15, 22)

2. How are people “running against the wind?”

1. Seeking meaning without God! (Psa. 14.1; cf., Psa. 1.4-6)

2. Unrestrained living! (Eccl. 2.1-11; cf., Luke 12.15-21)

3. Living in sin! (Luke 15.11-24; cf., Prov. 13.15)

4.   Learning without learning! (2 Tim. 3.7; cf., Amos 8.12)

II.RUNNING WITH THE WIND

1. “Running with the wind” is much easier! (E.g., Isa. 40.31)

2. What has God done to make our journey easier?

1. Hebrew & Greek words ruwach & pneuma: “wind, a movement of air; by resemblance breath; spirit, etc.”

2. These words are also used in reference of God’s Spirit – the Holy Spirit! (Cf., Gen. 1.2; 1 John 4.2)

1. Who is “running with the wind?”

1. Obey the “law of the Spirit” (Rom. 8.2).

2. Be “spiritually minded” (Rom. 8.5-11, 26).

3. Walk in the “fruit of the Spirit” (Gal. 5.22-26).

4. Worship “in spirit and truth” (John 4.23-24).

Conclusion: Solomon answered his own cynicism about the “meaninglessness” of life…(Eccl. 12.13-14).