Today’s passage: Ecclesiastes 3:9-15
Helpful thoughts:
- The beauty of the poetry from verses 1-8 is dashed by the blunt statement of verse 9. But, there’s hope.
- God gifted man by putting “eternity in his heart”. We know that there is more than this life. We cannot control eternity or bring it about, but it gives us perspective.
- Perspective relative to our time and the temporary nature of our “good” and “bad” times.
- Perspective relative to our lack of control and authority and God’s absolute control and authority.
- The final portion of verse 15, “God seeks what has been driven away” leads into the next passage concerning God’s judgement. God will recall all that has passed to give an account.
- When we fear God (Hold Him in reverence), we can view life as a gift and enjoy it, trusting that He will make everything right.
- When we fear/focus on the here and now (Ignoring God), we view life as a possession to be gained and are burdened by the prospect of eternity and a higher power. This results in idolatry.
Questions to consider:
- Under the sun, we view people who are older as having more experience and therefore wiser. How can our relationship with Christ and belief in God’s sovereignty over all eternity give us great wisdom, regardless of our age?
- What things might you try to control? What fears drive you to this attempt? What would repentance/surrender look like?
- How does a high view of God (Along with a humble view of self) and a delight in Jesus Christ help us to enjoy life?