Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 “13 The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. 14 For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.”

FINALLY

What does it mean when a preacher says, “In conclusion…”? Absolutely nothing. I have heard preachers preach their “final point” longer than the rest of the sermon. Lol. But seriously, sometimes we drag on and on and on with something until people just stop listening. Solomon seemed to know that. Not only does he wrap up this book, but he also summarizes all that he just said.

His conclusion about life: Fear God and keep His commandments. Think about that. Is it really that simple? Jesus said the greatest commandment was to love the Lord with all our hearts, minds and soul. If you do that you will fear God and keep His commandments. Solomon was essentially quoting Jesus. Do you agree?

TEACHING MOMENT

Don’t you want your children to mind? Teaching our children to obey is also preparing them to obey the Lord. Submission to authority (fear and respect) is godly. Our children must learn that we have been placed in an authoritative role in their life for a purpose. We are teaching them obedience which is a trait that will follow them all through life.

I don’t mean we demand obedience without the teaching part. We love our children, but we must be consistent and true to God’s principles ourselves. Our children need to see us being obedient, especially when we don’t want to be. Submission is a characteristic that is caught more than taught. We could “beat” them into submission (I don’t mean physically), but they won’t learn to submit until they are willing to die to their self. Yes, little Gertrude has a self will. If you don’t believe me, just ask her.

Will you submit and fear the Lord today? Will you keep His commandents – all of them? Will you be the example of submission for your children? Will you teach them the great privilege of submission? In the end, it will all be judged, just like Solomon said.