This chapter continues the “under the sun” premise (there is only the here and now, no eternity) and contains further laments along the theme.
“There is a vanity that takes place on earth, that there are righteous people to whom it happens according to the deeds of the wicked, and there are wicked people to whom it happens according to the deeds of the righteous. I said that this also is vanity. 15 And I commend joy, for man has nothing better under the sun but to eat and drink and be joyful, for this will go with him in his toil through the days of his life that God has given him under the sun.” (v14-15)
I agree with the author in this – if there isn’t life after death, then all of what happens here on earth is meaningless.
Why do righteous people suffer from wickedness? Why do wicked people prosper? Why do good works? Why practice faith? Why not just do whatever we want and enjoy life to the fullest? That’s the author’s thought here, that the best thing we can do is just enjoy life as much as we can, because everything else is meaningless.
Fortunately, we have a New Testament that clearly explains the author’s viewpoint is incorrect – there is indeed an eternity and afterlife, and if we obey God and His will life will be meaningful. We may not “enjoy life to its fullest”, according to what the author meant, however, we will experience true joy in this life, and an eternity in heaven with God – now that has meaning and purpose.
Regarding the other questions… Why do righteous people suffer? Sin. Why do wicked people seem blessed? Sin. This world is messed up, no longer as God intended it – we broke this world with sin, making it unfair and unjust. It’s our fault. Thankfully, God through His law, and then through His Son, has provided a way to right these wrongs. The best part is one day sin (and its affects) will be completely eradicated for the remainder of eternity.
I suggest that we be ready with responses to ‘questions of meaninglessness and injustice’ (see 1 Pt 3:15). Many people wonder why ‘good people’ suffer, ‘what is the meaning of life’, and why ‘life isn’t fair’. We have responses to these questions, and can allow the Holy Spirit to speak through us. Who knows? We may gain a brother/sister in eternity by responding to their questions, giving purpose and meaning to our current lives on earth (obeying the great commission Jesus gave us).
Father God, our Sovereign Lord and King, holy, holy, holy is Your name. We thank You for giving life meaning, and providing the hope of eternity. Thank you for making a way through Jesus for us to join You in perfect relationship in eternity. In the mean time, Holy Spirit please guide our words and actions so we would fulfill our life’s calling to proclaim the gospel message and Jesus’ name. In doing so would You soften the hearts of those who hear, so they may be our eternal siblings in heaven. We seek to honor, praise, glorify and obey You, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training