Now all has been heard; here is the end of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. – Ecclesiastes 12:13

As we come to the end of 2024, let us reflect on the last verse in the book of Ecclesiastes; where the author, known as the Teacher, summarizes the main point of his message. After exploring the meaning of life, the fleeting nature of earthly pursuits, and the inevitability of death, he concludes that the ultimate duty of humanity is to fear God and keep His commandments. By extension, he is calling us to fear God. This is not a call to legalism or mere obedience, but rather a recognition that our lives are not our own, and that we are accountable to a higher power.

To fear God is not to cower in terror, but to reverence and respect Him as the Creator and Sustainer of all life. It is to acknowledge His sovereignty and majesty, and to submit ourselves to His will. Also, to keep His commandments is not to follow a list of rules, but to live a life of obedience and surrender to His purposes. When we fear God and keep His commandments, we find true meaning and purpose in life.

As we reflect on this conclusion to the book of Ecclesiastes, let us ask ourselves: Are we living our lives in reverence and respect for God? Are we submitting ourselves to His will and purposes? Are we keeping His commandments, not out of obligation, but out of love and devotion? May we take to heart the Teacher’s conclusion, and may our lives be marked by a deep and abiding fear of God, and a commitment to keeping His commandments.