The Bible's Chief Message (Man's Chief End)

What is the chief end of man? Ecclesiastes 12:8–14 prepares us for the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that man's chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever. The devotional draws together the profound truth of Ecclesiastes, revealing that life under the sun is fleeting and transient—like vapor—yet not meaningless, because its true substance lies in one's relationship with God. Far from advocating despair, it calls believers to live with eternal perspective, grounded in the fear of God and obedience to His commandments, which constitute humanity's ultimate purpose. The Word of God is both a goad, to awaken and redirect the soul, and a well-driven nail to anchor life amid life's storms, offering enduring stability and truth. Scripture, as the inspired, unified message of one Shepherd, is the sole authority for faith and practice. Ultimately, the conclusion is both a call to joyful reverence and righteous living, inviting believers to find lasting joy in God and to live with the certainty of future judgment and eternal glory.