We’ve all heard the phrase, “Youth is wasted on the young.” The sentiment often reflects the urgency—or even anxiety—about the fleeting nature of youth and the inevitable approach of old age. The late author Terry Pratchett once captured this idea humorously, saying, “Inside every old person is a young person wondering what happened.”
The Curious Case of Aging in Reverse
The idea of wasted youth is flipped on its head in the story of “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” originally penned by F. Scott Fitzgerald in 1922 and later adapted into a 2008 film. In this story, Benjamin Button is born as an old man and ages in reverse, growing younger as time passes. The narrative explores the anxiety and tragedy of a life lived backward, where the fear of losing loved ones is intertwined with the inevitability of becoming younger.
Solomon’s Wisdom: A Life Backward in Ecclesiastes
In Ecclesiastes 11 and 12, King Solomon presents a reflection that parallels this reversed aging concept, flipping the script on the idea that youth is wasted on the young. As we approach the conclusion of our summer sermon series, “Living Life Backwards,” we find Solomon summarizing his observations about life and God.
Ecclesiastes is essentially the journal of an old king—Solomon, the third king of Israel, who ruled nearly three thousand years ago. Solomon ascended to the throne as a young man, likely around 17 or 18 years old, and began his reign with great wisdom granted by God. However, as he aged, Solomon’s heart turned away from God, influenced by his numerous pagan wives. This led him to pursue wealth, women, and worldly pleasures, all of which he later deemed “meaningless.”
The Futility of Life Without God
Throughout Ecclesiastes, Solomon repeats the word “meaningless” 38 times, describing life without God as a futile endeavor—a chasing after the wind. He illustrates the emptiness of seeking fulfillment in anything other than a relationship with God, a conclusion many come to after a life spent chasing worldly pleasures.
The good news, however, is that Solomon seems to have returned to God at the end of his life. He concludes that true fulfillment comes only from a life centered around God. This realization forms the basis of his final advice, particularly to the young: “Enjoy life while you are young because you are going to get old and die!” (Ecclesiastes 11:9)
The Wisdom of Living God’s Way
Solomon’s advice might seem stark, but it carries a deep truth: Enjoy life, but don’t pursue pleasure at the expense of your relationship with God. True fulfillment comes from living life God’s way. This is a lesson we’ve all witnessed, whether in our own lives or in the lives of others. When we live contrary to God’s design, we often encounter shame, guilt, broken relationships, and other painful consequences.
For example, consider the gift of sex. When experienced within the bounds of marriage, as God intended, it brings fulfillment. But when pursued outside of God’s design, it can lead to heartache, betrayal, and regret. Solomon’s point is clear: life goes better when we follow God’s way.
Remembering Your Creator: The Key to a Fulfilling Life
In Ecclesiastes 12:1, Solomon urges us to “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth.” He specifically chooses the title “Creator” for God, emphasizing His power and sovereignty over all things. By remembering our Creator, we lead a God-focused, God-surrendered life.
Solomon uses poetic language in Ecclesiastes 12:1-8 to describe the process of aging. He paints a vivid picture of the physical decline that comes with age, urging us to remember God before “the days of trouble come” and before our bodies begin to fail.
The Curveball: Youth Is Relative
The big reveal in Solomon’s message is that “youth” is a relative concept. He suggests that anyone who has not yet reached the stage of physical and mental decline described in Ecclesiastes 12:3-8 can consider themselves young. Therefore, the call to remember our Creator applies to all of us, regardless of age.
Living with No Regrets
As followers of Jesus, Solomon’s perspective encourages us to make the most of every day. The “youth” of this moment in our lives should inspire us to live with no regrets, giving God all of who we are. By remembering our Creator, we align our lives with His purpose and find true fulfillment, no matter how many years we may live.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Youth, Embrace Your Creator
In conclusion, Solomon’s wisdom in Ecclesiastes serves as a powerful reminder that life without God is ultimately meaningless. Whether we are young or old, we are called to remember our Creator, live according to His ways, and find true fulfillment in Him. Life is fleeting, and the opportunity to live a life of substance and spiritual legacy is now—so let’s embrace it fully.