Living in the Real World

Our Teacher is no armchair philosopher. In spite of the sense of meaninglessness that comes from being unable to unlock the mystery of what God is doing in 'life under the sun' the Teacher still has some practical advice about living hopefully in a world that often appears random and unpredictable.

We are not to use life's unfriendliness and uncertainty as an excuse to withdraw from life's responsibilities. Playing it safe and waiting for ideal circumstances is shown for what it is - a cover up for laziness and self preservation.

He counsels a generous and wide investment of God's gifts rather than a self protective approach to life. Even young people are encouraged to live life to the full with unrestrained joy. Neither the truth that their youthful energy and pleasure will soon pass nor the fact that in the end all our lives will be assessed by God need be a dampener. Rather, the brevity of life and being aware of their accountability towards God will protect the young from wasting their lives on unworthy pleasures and pursuits.