USEFUL BUT USELESS

USEFUL BUT USELESS.

Memory verse:

For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

Matthew 16:26 

EXPOSITION

As we read through the lines of Ecclesiastes, there comes a feeling of joy and moodiness; joy because it is good for a man to get wealth and satisfaction for himself (Ecc 9:10), but so sad, when none of these things will be useful to us after death: naked we were born, naked shall we leave (Ecc 5:15). All that we have now, our certificates that we brag with, the buildings, investment, recognition (nationally and internationally) e.t.c are all worldly useful but eternally useless. Solomon took time to acquire all that his heart desired; from materials to popularity, but the final tag on them is VANITY (Ecc. 1:2). 

No one is saying riches are not good, but their worth ends here. The best they can give anyone whether you have them or not, is a six-feet below the earth. Where you go after is a function of your relationship with God (Matt 16:24; 6:33). Jesus Christ’s admonition to all is … one thing you lack, go your way sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven and come, take up the cross and follow me (Mark 10:21). Jesus wasn't saying you should become empty. He simply implies making heaven your focus because earthly possessions are only earthly useful but heavenly useless. Hence, build up your treasure in heaven where there is eternal security. Let's make our lives useful eternally.

Perhaps, these questions may help someone on how to be wise now. Where do you believe you would stay longer—earth or heaven? How much of the 24hours that make a day do you spend on earthly/heavenly projects? Who would be the one to benefit most of your inheritance after death? Which of your properties would you like to be buried along with? Be wise!

PRAYER POINTS

1. O Lord, give me the grace to focus my energy in building treasures in heaven.

2. O Lord, may my earthly riches be a blessing to my generation (others).

3. Lord, make our greedy leaders and politicians see the vanity in corruption.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Judges 3:24 - 6:1; Luke 11:6 - 11:27