“Everything is meaningless,” says the Teacher, “completely meaningless!”
–Ecclesiastes 1:2 (NLT)

“The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.”
–John 10:10 (NLT)

There’s a rather sad trend in our culture, which is driven by advertisers’ knack for revealing our wants and desires. This trend dictates that you should run out and buy a new product the minute a product shows the slightest amount of fading or wear, or once you get the slightest bit tired of it. It seems like there’s a new and improved video-game system coming out every year, which lots of people are eager to run out and buy.

Fashion and beauty trends seem to change several times a year, and commercials urge everyone to buy the latest and greatest designer outfit or make-up collection right this minute. And don’t get me started on all the sales that car dealerships love to dish out. Basically, businesses love to make the average person think their product will make life more fulfilling and wonderful than ever.

The truth is that although material things can satisfy us for a short while, they’ll never give our lives true meaning. In fact, nothing in the corrupted world we live in will ever completely fulfill us.

In the first scripture quoted above, King Solomon stated that everything in our world is “absolutely meaningless”, and he should know. As king of Jerusalem he could buy or take anything he wanted, and he sure made the most of that ability. He relates that he built many fine houses and parks, and he also planted wonderful vineyards. He bought many slaves and musicians, and he collected many valuable treasures. But none of those homes or possessions really satisfied him. In the end, he says several times that finding pleasure from earthly things is as impossible as hunting down the wind.

But just as Solomon knew all about the earthly side of life, John knew that God and His son Jesus are the only true way we can find joy. According to John’s scripture, Jesus said that he alone will lead us to a satisfying life.

No matter how much we may love our earthly houses or cars or jewelry, they will only leave us empty and unfulfilled on the inside. Jesus said that we will always hunger and thirst for more of whatever this world can give us. Only the love and the word of God can truly give us happiness on both the inside and the outside. God is able to guide us wisely and safely through life, which is something no material things can do. So I encourage you to get to know Jesus today, or to re-dedicate yourself to God if you already know Him. The more you get to know God, the more satisfying your life will become.

Thank you for reading this, and may the Lord give you a wonderful week! We are trying to reach people who are hurting, so if God lays it on your heart, please consider becoming a partner with us. If you would like to make a donation, please visit www.hcmachaplains.org and click on the Donate Now link. You may also send your donation to HCMA (Healthcare Chaplains Ministry Association). Our ID number is 560. The address is 377 E. Chapman Ave., Suite 260, Placentia, CA 92870.

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