This morning I read about two great men who lived on this earth. One is called the wisest person who ever lived, and the other was born into poverty. Both had a great impact on others and both are still remembered today. They gave us a perspective about life and it is our choice in which one we choose to follow.
The wisest person said:
“What do people get for all their hard work? No matter how much they see, people are never satisfied. No matter how much they hear, they are not content. People don’t remember what happened in the past, and in future generations, no one will remember what they are doing now. Everything that people do is meaningless-like chasing the wind.
Some people say life is about having the good things in life. They seek pleasures, and cheer themselves with wine. Some say I will seek great knowledge and become wise in this world. Others will seek to find the meaning of their life by building huge homes, and planting beautiful vineyards. Some will collect great sums of silver and gold, and having everything a man could desire!”
But listen to what he says, for the wisest man had everything listed above. “Anything I wanted, I would take. I denied myself no pleasure. I even found great pleasure in hard work, But as I looked at everything that I had worked so hard to accomplish, l realized that everyone will die. The wise will not be remembered any longer than the fool. For who can eat or enjoy anything apart from the One who gives it to us, and allows us to enjoy it? God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who please him.”
The poor man says:
“Be truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, think of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others too.”
Who was this poor man? Jesus! He gave up His divine privilege, and took the humble position of a slave, by being born as a human being. He appeared in human form, He humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross – so that we could have His Holy Spirit dwell in us and produce good fruit with our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Those who belong to Him have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to His cross and crucified them there.
Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Then you will find the meaning of your life on earth!