Existentialism is the philosophical belief that every person is responsible for creating his or her own meaning. God is not in the picture. If an existentialist believes in a higher power, that deity is neither transcendent nor relevant in their life. Those that hold to this philosophy individually strive to find satisfaction. That’s what Solomon tried to do in his life under the sun. Check out his pursuits for purpose.

I said in my heart . . . I will test you with pleasure (Eccl. 2:1).

I searched with my heart how to cheer my body with wine (Eccl. 2:3).

I made great works. I built houses . . . for myself (Eccl. 2:4).

I had also great possessions (Eccl. 2:7).

I got singers, both men and women (Eccl. 2:8).

I kept my heart from no pleasure (Eccl. 2:10).

The existentialist identifies with something they believe will bring meaning. An artist identifies with their creative impressions. An employee identifies with their work. An athlete identifies with a sport. But then tragedy hits the artist, the workaholic is fired, and the athlete is injured—each resulting in an existential crisis. That’s what happened to Solomon. Nothing that he tried delivered meaning. Everything was “vanity,” “chasing after the wind,” “there was nothing to be gained under the sun.” Solomon’s existential crisis led him to conclude that life under the sun doesn’t make sense. But one thing changes everything. That one thing is a relationship with Jesus.

Solomon explains that man’s existence should be defined by honoring, loving, respecting, and obeying God. That is where we find our true identity. Our spiritual identity cannot be lost because it comes from Jesus. In Christ, we are significant. We are not defined by what we do. In Christ, we are secure. Nothing can separate us from his love. In Christ, we are accepted. We are adopted into an eternal family. In Christ, we are forgiven. Our sin and guilt are placed on Jesus. In Christ, we are empowered. The Holy Spirit gives us all we need to live a life pleasing to God.

Father, help me identify with you alone. Keep me from trying to find satisfaction in temporal things and fleeting experiences. Move me from a focus on who I am to the satisfaction of whose I am. In Jesus’ name. Amen.