The Conclusion of the Matter

“When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man.” Ecclesiastes 12:13 BSB

In a story published by KTIV yesterday titled “‘Mighty Mo Run” concludes with a half marathon race,” it was reported that, after three days, and a lot of miles ran, the Mighty Mo run in Iowa is over. The first two days featured a 5k on Friday and a 10k on Saturday. Sunday capped off the weekend of running with a half marathon starting at 7 a.m. that looped through Sioux City and South Sioux City. The first runners made their way across the finish line just after 8:15 a.m. Nearly 330 runners participated, and of those, 26 were given the “Stooge” award for running all three days. Race Director Jim Ewoldt says in the future the race will grow even bigger. 

And you know, when it comes to concluding things after the end of a long race, King Solomon had this to say, “When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man.” After a long life spent running after all that his heart desired including tons (literally) of silver and gold, a mass of houses and chariots, huge herds and flocks, and even 700 wives and 300 concubines (that would lead to his downfall), Solomon declared that it was all as meaningless as chasing after the wind. The only life well lived that had any lasting meaning, he ascertained after his many years of experience, was a life spent being obedient to God and being content in God. Everything else, he came to know, was merely folly.  

So don’t be a “stooge” by running aimlessly after the things of this world, only to conclude at the end of your life that it was a worthless pursuit my friend. Follow God with wholehearted obedience now so you will not only have the contentment that’s found solely in Christ, but will come to the end of your life having fulfilled the purpose you were created for. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Solomon that shows us the vanity of chasing after the desires of our flesh at the expense of delighting ourselves in You… the One who gives us our hearts desires when those desires align with your will. Remind us that a life spent apart from delighting in You, no matter how much fortune, fame, or education was gained, is a wasted life Lord. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. 

Happy Running!