simple but not easy

I was reading Ecclesiastes 12 this morning and was compelled to focus in a bit on verses 13 & 14. The Contemporary English Version words those verses this way:
"Everything you were taught can be put into a few words: Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about. God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad."
Fear God and keep his commandments. It's pretty simple but it's not easy! Easy for me is fearing man - I can become consumed with far too much concern about impressing people or worrying about what others think of me. The quest... turning that same focus to pleasing God and God alone.
The notes in my Bible for this passage used the phrase "Worship and obedience will eventually lead to the light of God's hope." Worship and obey - fear God and keep his commandments. Simple but not easy!
The other portion of my Bible reading plan had me in 1 Peter where Isaiah 40:8 is quoted:
"The grass withers and flowers fall but the word of our God stands forever."
The opinions and approval of others will wither and fall; God's Word, his love for me, his faithfulness in my life - STANDS FOREVER!