As we wind down Ecclesiastes Chapter 3, we’re almost done, which has us covering 25% of the whole book, Solomon gives us a grim outlook as he compares the destiny of humans to animals

Ecc 3:18  I also thought about the human condition—how God proves to people that they are like animals.

Ecc 3:19  For people and animals share the same fate—both breathe and both must die. So people have no real advantage over the animals. How meaningless!

Ecc 3:20  Both go to the same place—they came from dust and they return to dust.

We should take note that this outlook doesn’t include the scope of eternity.  Solomon is basing these observations on his own earthly experiences, without considering heaven or hell in these observations.  Looking at this like an atheist would, certainly does paint a very bleak picture.  

However, we remember that back in Genesis, God gave man dominion over animals, and we also remember the Gospel – that those who put their trust in Jesus will have eternal salvation.  So while our earthly bodies may be committed to dust, our souls will forever be with God when we trust and obey Him.