Let's look for hidden gems (10 mins.)
Ec 3:8. When is it not “a time for love”? (it “Love” par. 39).
The “time to love” is withheld from those whom Jehovah marks as unlovable or from those who are determined to continue in a course of wickedness. Nor should love be shown to those who intensely hate the true God, for the Bible indicates that doing so would achieve nothing, since those who hate God will not respond to his love. God, who loves justice and hates lawlessness, has a time to take action against them.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Psalm 45:7 and Hebrews 1:9 indicate that God and Christ love justice and hate lawlessness. This reminds us that love is not blind, but rather linked to a clear sense of right and wrong. Therefore, genuine love extends to all people who do not show hatred for God, but it is withheld when someone persists in wickedness, which ultimately demonstrates God's justice.
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 8 reminds us that there is a time to act and a time to hate. From this perspective, Jehovah, who is the Supreme Judge, uses his power and legal right to take action against those who hate his justice and also against those who hate his people. Thus he demonstrates that he is a just God.
It's not a time for love when someone demonstrates through their words and actions that they hate Jehovah and have no interest in changing. If I were to show affection or support, it would be like approving of their bad behavior. Instead, I learn that I must use my love to support what Jehovah approves.
This text helps me be careful with my friendships. I may like someone or have things in common with me, but if they show they don't respect Jehovah or his standards, it's not time to give them my trust or affection. Otherwise, they could end up influencing me and distancing me from what's most important: my friendship with Jehovah.
We understand that this is not a “time to love” those who persecute or strongly oppose Jehovah’s people. Rather, it is a time to direct my love toward those who do want to do what is right, such as my brothers in the congregation or people who show interest in knowing the truth. In this way, I am using my love in the way Jehovah intends.
This is not a “time to love” those whom the Bible identifies as unlovable. Jehovah and Jesus love justice, but they hate lawlessness and wickedness. Love must be withheld from those who resolutely and intensely hate the true God.
We must stop “loving” those who do not respond to God’s love because they are determined to pursue a course of evil. Jehovah himself considers them unworthy and has a set time to take action against them, what the Bible calls the “time of hatred” or the time of executing judgment.
The time to love should never be understood as something unlimited or without discernment. Jehovah himself, who is the personification of love, establishes that there are those who, because of their rebellious behavior and hatred toward him, make themselves unworthy of receiving love. The Bible indicates that such people should be treated firmly, without giving them affection that would be wasted or even disloyal.
Instead, the “time to love” is manifested in the way we strive to reflect God’s mercy and patience toward all who are still open to approaching him. In this way, we demonstrate a balanced love: firm against evil, yet tender toward those who still seek justice.
When it comes to people who meet these two conditions, first, Jehovah marks them as unlovable because they intensely hate the true God; and second, they are determined to pursue a course of evil. Such people would not respond to love, for they actively reject God.
The Bible indicates in Ecclesiastes 3:8 that there is a proper time to love and a proper time to hate. This doesn't mean that love is selective or should be withheld capriciously, but rather that there are circumstances where God doesn't expect us to show it.
According to the book Insight, love should be withheld only from those whom Jehovah himself considers unworthy—those who, knowingly, choose to hate him and persist in wickedness. An example of this is those who intensely hate God and his righteous standards.
Continuing to show love to people who don't deserve it would produce no change in them, for their hearts are hardened. Therefore, like Jehovah and Jesus Christ, we must love righteousness and hate wickedness.
This is not the time to love those who become avowed enemies of God and stubbornly resist His will. Recognizing this principle helps us balance Christian love: it extends to all as long as there is a chance of their reaction, but it withdraws from those who have chosen to hate Jehovah and His people.
What spiritual pearls have you found in this week's Bible reading?
Ecclesiastes 3:1. In this verse, Solomon says that for every activity under the heavens there is a designated time. This teaches us that, while it is true that each person does not have a predetermined destiny, there is an appropriate time or just moment to do things in order to obtain the best results.
Ecclesiastes 3:1. This is a lesson farmers know very well, as they know what they should plant each season to achieve good harvests. So, if we apply this biblical principle, we won't rush into things, but rather we'll consider our decisions to ensure success.
Ecclesiastes 3:1. This teaches us that we must trust in Jehovah, for he has perfect timing. This means that we should not fret or feel anxious about prophecies yet to be fulfilled, because in due time they will be fulfilled down to the smallest detail.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. In these verses, wise King Solomon spoke of 28 different activities, pointing out that each of them has an appointed time. So, instead of striving to conform to human clocks and calendars, I should meditate on Jehovah's view of each of these activities, so that I may act in harmony with his purpose.
Ecclesiastes 3:2. This verse says there is a time to be born and a time to die. However, this does not contradict the rest of Scripture. It is not saying here that each person has a specific date and time for birth and death; rather, it refers to the cycles of life. So, instead of worrying about the day of our death, we should focus on our worship of Jehovah.
Ecclesiastes 3:4. This verse says there is a time to laugh and a time to cry. While it's true that Jehovah wants us to be happy, this doesn't mean we should go from celebration to celebration. Nor should we cry everywhere, but we should live our lives with the seriousness that the last days of this world deserve.
Ecclesiastes 3:7. This verse says there is a time to speak and a time to be silent. While the ability to speak is a gift from Jehovah, he wants us to use it appropriately. From this we learn that we must discern in which situations and times we should speak and in which it is wisest to remain silent.
Ecclesiastes 3:7. One way to apply this principle is to wait to give counsel, in order to find the right time and place to do so. Another way is to speak with a brother who has violated Jehovah's laws to remind him of the Bible's standards, and, whenever necessary, also speak with the elders so that this person receives the discipline he deserves.
Ecclesiastes 3:11. This verse says that Jehovah has placed the desire for eternity in our hearts. This helps us understand our intense desire to continue living despite many difficulties and teaches us that Jehovah created us to live eternally, so he will do whatever it takes to fulfill his purpose.
Ecclesiastes 4:4. This verse warns us to avoid rivalries. We should not envy or covet the successes, achievements, talents, or possessions of others. Rather, our satisfaction should come from working with diligence, skill, and the right motivation.
Ecclesiastes 4:9. This verse says that two are better than one. This is a wonderful lesson for married couples, but it also teaches us that we should find satisfaction in teamwork rather than just wanting to satisfy our personal ambitions, especially when we need support or encouragement to overcome difficulties, weaknesses, or to accomplish certain tasks that we couldn't do alone.
Ecclesiastes 4:6. This verse says that a handful of rest is better than two handfuls of hard work and chasing the wind. This teaches us not to become workaholics or dedicate so many hours to the point of losing energy and having no time to enjoy the results of our labor.
Ecclesiastes 3:1. This text teaches me not to get impatient if things don't go my way. Jehovah is in control of time and knows the best time for everything. In my life, this helps me to be patient and not compare myself with others, because everyone has their own rhythm in the family, at work, or in the congregation.
Ecclesiastes 3:6. Sometimes it's necessary to let go of things that no longer serve us, not only material things, but also feelings like resentment, pride, or guilt. This gives me freedom and peace. Instead, I must hold on to what truly matters: my friendships in the congregation, the biblical counsel, and what I learn at the meetings.
Ecclesiastes 3:12-13. Although secular work can sometimes be tiring, this text reminds me that Jehovah wants me to enjoy what I do and to be thankful for the food and necessities He gives me. I also apply this to serving Jehovah. Instead of seeing it as an obligation, I try to enjoy every outing to preach and every opportunity to serve.
Ecclesiastes 3:20. This reminds me that human life is fragile and temporary. We are not masters of the future. This reality helps me make better use of my time on what truly matters: serving Jehovah, spending time with my family, and cultivating good friendships in the congregation.
Ecclesiastes 4:4. Many people today strive only to surpass others or to appear good. This brings frustration and never gives true satisfaction. This text teaches me not to compare myself with others and to focus on working with pure motives, seeking to please Jehovah and not to impress people.
Ecclesiastes 4:6. Here I learn that not everything is about working and accumulating money or material things. If I live for that, I'll never have peace. Instead, it's better to have what I need and live peacefully, dedicating time to Jehovah, family, and rest. This balance protects me from stress and from putting material things above spiritual things.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10. This text reminds me of the value of spiritual friends. In the congregation, there is always someone who can encourage me when I feel weak. And I can also be that support for others. This motivates me to cultivate good spiritual friendships and to be loyal to my brothers and sisters.
Ecclesiastes 4:13. This teaches me the importance of humility. Age, qualifications, or experience don't matter. If I stop listening to advice, I become stubborn and hurt myself. On the other hand, if I am humble and accept correction, Jehovah can bless me and help me improve.
Ecclesiastes 3:1. We must prioritize our daily activities wisely, allocating time to vital things like serving Jehovah and family. This is crucial. Understanding this helps us maintain balance in life.
Ecclesiastes 3:4. When facing the loss of a loved one, it's natural and appropriate to grieve, but we trust in the promise of resurrection. Remembering that hope brings comfort and, in time, lasting joy.
Ecclesiastes 3:7. During a ban, we must identify when it's time to remain silent. We must protect sensitive information, such as the names of the brothers, the places where we meet, how we preach, and how we receive spiritual nourishment. We must not reveal this information to the authorities. If we did, we would endanger our brothers.
Ecclesiastes 3:12. True joy comes from doing good—from serving Jehovah. Full-time service, for example, allows us to enjoy life to the fullest while helping others.
Ecclesiastes 4:4. We can feel very satisfied if we work with effort and skill. However, if we do it just to excel, we will encourage rivalry, ill intentions, and jealousy in others. All our efforts in Christian ministry must have a good motivation.
Ecclesiastes 4:12. When the expression "triple cord" is used metaphorically to refer to marriage, it implies that the husband, wife, and Jehovah are three strands intertwined in a single cord, with Jehovah as the main strand. Being close to God gives a couple the spiritual strength they need to overcome difficulties and find happiness.
Ecclesiastes 4:15-16. “The child who is second,” that is, the king's successor, may initially enjoy the support of all those who precede him; but, in the end, “the people will not rejoice over him either,” that is, they will withdraw their favor. What does that mean? Surely, popularity is often short-lived.
Ecclesiastes 3:10. The text shows that God, in his wisdom, does not allow human beings to live in total idleness. Responsibilities are a way of giving rhythm and order to life, avoiding emptiness and despair.
Ecclesiastes 3:11. This means that human beings have a natural desire to live forever, to transcend this brief life. This longing is proof that we were created for something greater than just living and dying. Jehovah designed us with hope and the ability to dream of an eternal future.
Ecclesiastes 3:12. This verse teaches us that joy doesn't depend solely on external circumstances. Even if there are problems or limitations, a person who trusts in God can choose to live joyfully because they know their life has a divine purpose.
Ecclesiastes 3:13. This verse teaches us that when we face trials or see changes in this world, we should remember that Jehovah's word and purposes remain unchanged. This motivates us to obey Him, to fear Him in a good way, and to live with faith in what He has promised.
Ecclesiastes 3:17. This verse reminds us that humans do not have the final say on what is just or unjust. Although it sometimes seems that the wicked prosper and the righteous suffer, Jehovah sees all and will judge with perfect justice at the right time.
Ecclesiastes 3:19. The text reminds us that, in terms of physical condition, humans are not superior to animals. They both breathe the same air, depend on the same creation, and sooner or later die. This teaches us humility. We are neither self-sufficient nor immortal, but limited creatures.
Ecclesiastes 4:3. It teaches us that when life is viewed only from a human perspective, weariness and disillusionment predominate. This reminds us that true hope and purpose come only from Jehovah. Despite the injustice and suffering around us, we must not allow ourselves to be overcome by despair; rather, let us remember that Jehovah is aware of everything and that his eternal purpose will bring lasting relief. In the meantime, we can find comfort in his word, in prayer, and in Christian fellowship.
Ecclesiastes 4:8. The text describes a man who lives alone, without children or siblings, and who dedicates his entire life to tireless work. This teaches us that focusing solely on accumulating wealth without emotional ties or a shared purpose leads to an empty existence. Loneliness, when linked to selfishness, renders effort useless.
Ecclesiastes 4:9. The verse says: “Two are better than one, for they have a greater return for their labor.” In marriage, this truth is especially true. When husband and wife work together, they not only gain physical or material strength, but also grow stronger emotionally and spiritually.
Ecclesiastes 4:9. Jehovah expects marriage to be a team, with both partners supporting each other, sharing responsibilities, praying together, and encouraging each other in difficult times. Yes, burdens become lighter, decisions are wiser, and blessings are more abundant.
Ecclesiastes 4:13. Many people believe they will be happy when they have more money, recognition, or possessions. However, this verse teaches that true enjoyment comes from valuing what we already have as a gift from Jehovah. The key is not to have more, but to humbly recognize that even the simple things—a meal, a drink, a break after work—can bring fulfillment if received with gratitude.
Ecclesiastes 3:2. This text teaches us that life is made up of beginnings and endings. Instead of resisting or clinging to a stage, we learn to flow with them and trust that each "season" has a purpose in God's plan for us.
Ecclesiastes 3:4. It teaches us that we shouldn't repress our pain or feel guilty for being happy. Jehovah gave us emotions to experience. Crying is not a sign of weakness, but of humanity; in the same way, celebrating and laughing are acts of gratitude.
Ecclesiastes 3:3. This text teaches us that there are times to correct, confront, or leave behind harmful structures (tear down), and times to encourage, build relationships, and projects (edify). We ask Jehovah for wisdom to know the right time.
Ecclesiastes 3:7. This text teaches us that wisdom consists not only in saying the right thing, but also in knowing when to remain silent. It's important to listen more. Sometimes, our presence can be a greater comfort than many words; other times, a timely word of encouragement can change someone's day.
Ecclesiastes 3:6. It teaches us that there is a time to let go. Letting go isn't giving up, but rather making room for the new things Jehovah wants to give us. At the same time, there is a time to hold fast to what is good and true.
Ecclesiastes 3:11. We learn that when we are impatient to see a result, we must remember this promise. What now seems like chaos, waiting, or failure, God is transforming into something “beautiful” in the perfect moment. Our story is not finished; we trust in Jehovah’s “due timing.”
Ecclesiastes 3:12. This text teaches us that our purpose is not to live a life of overwhelming grandeur, but a life of simple joy and good deeds. Every day we can look for a concrete way to do good: a phone call, a gesture of help, a kind word. This is the true meaning of life.
Ecclesiastes 3:13. It teaches us that it's good to enjoy the fruits of our labor. A good meal, a moment of rest, or the company of loved ones are not distractions, but gifts from God. Receiving them with gratitude is recognizing the signs of his goodness toward us.
Ecclesiastes 3:17. We learn that when we see injustice and evil going unpunished, we should not despair. There is a “time” appointed by God for justice. Our job is not to judge or seek revenge, but to live with integrity and trust that He will bring about justice in His own time.
Ecclesiastes 3:22. We learn that, whatever our assignment or work, we should find satisfaction in the effort itself, in doing it well and for Jehovah's glory. The reward is not only the result, but also the dignity and joy of creating and serving.
Ecclesiastes 3:11. This verse emphasizes that everything Jehovah does is perfect and harmonious, and that he gave us a natural desire to live forever. Although we enjoy what we see now, we feel that our present life is insufficient, because we were created for much more than a few years on earth.
Ecclesiastes 3:11. Something impressive about this verse is that Jehovah has placed in our hearts the desire for eternity. This explains why no one likes to die: because we weren't created for that. When we see that Jehovah makes everything beautiful in its proper time, it gives us confidence that, in the new world, that desire to live forever will be fulfilled.
Ecclesiastes 3:22. Here Solomon points out that, although work can be tiring and repetitive, enjoying it and finding satisfaction in it is a gift from God. This prevents life from feeling empty or routine.
Ecclesiastes 3:22. This verse reminds us that, although work is sometimes difficult, Jehovah wants us to enjoy what we do and be thankful. When we feel satisfied with what we accomplish, no matter how small, that is also a gift from God and helps us maintain a positive attitude.
Ecclesiastes 4:9. The text teaches the value of cooperation and friendship. Life becomes more bearable when we have someone to support us, both physically and spiritually.
Ecclesiastes 4:9. This verse makes me think of the congregation. Sometimes you think you can handle it alone, but Jehovah designed us to support one another. When we share in the preaching together or when a brother encourages us with a word, we feel how true this is: two are always better than one.
Ecclesiastes 4:12. The comparison shows that unity and solidarity multiply strength. If two people are strong together, they are even stronger when a third, firm support is added. When Jehovah is that third cord, the union becomes much stronger, both in marriage and in the congregation.
Ecclesiastes 4:12. This text offers us a beautiful lesson for marriage or for the family: when Jehovah is that third cord, the union becomes much stronger. The same thing happens in the congregation: when we support one another and place Jehovah at the center of our relationships, nothing and no one can easily break us.
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 2. This teaches us that there is an appointed time for every matter under the heavens and that life is full of good and bad moments. Solomon indicates that life's events happen continuously and that we cannot control everything.
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 2. This leads us to reflect on the importance of not getting carried away by daily busyness and remembering our relationship with the Creator. The Bible teaches us to seek meaning and purpose in life and to find comfort in the promise of a secure and bright future under God's Kingdom.
Ecclesiastes 3:4. This teaches us not to lose perspective in life, to be aware of what is happening in the world, and to seek true happiness in our relationship with Jehovah. It shows us that, even when things are difficult, we can find joy and purpose in our faith and in the hope of a better future.
Ecclesiastes 3:4. It reminds us that happiness is not found only in material things or superficial entertainment, but in living according to Jehovah's principles and having a deep relationship with him. In short, it teaches us to focus on what truly matters and not to be carried away by things that have no eternal value.
Ecclesiastes 3:5. This verse teaches us that there are times in life when we must act decisively and others when we must be more cautious and patient. It shows us that we must discern when to share biblical truth and when to be more reserved, depending on the circumstances and Jehovah's guidance. It reminds us to be sensitive to his direction and act according to his will in every situation.
Ecclesiastes 3:6. This teaches me that there are times to seek earnestly and prayerfully, and other times to let go and trust in Jehovah's guidance. It's important to know when to fight for something and when to leave it in God's hands, trusting that he has an appointed time for everything. By trusting in Jehovah, we can find peace and security in his will.
Ecclesiastes 3:7. This verse teaches us that there are appropriate times for different actions and attitudes in life. In particular, it shows us the importance of knowing when to speak and when to remain silent. It reminds us to be wise and discern when it is appropriate to share our words and thoughts and when it is better to remain silent. This helps us communicate effectively and respectfully with others and avoid causing unnecessary harm or conflict.
Ecclesiastes 3:8. This teaches us that we should show love and compassion toward people, but also reject sin and evil. Jehovah loves humanity, but hates sin and injustice. As Jehovah's Witnesses, we should imitate him: show love and compassion toward others, while standing firm against sin and evil.
Ecclesiastes 3:11. This teaches us that Jehovah has placed eternity in the hearts of human beings, which is reflected in our intense desire to continue living and our natural resistance to death. This suggests that Jehovah's original purpose for humanity is eternal life. We can trust that his purpose has not changed, and this gives us hope and motivation to follow the path he has laid out for us.
Ecclesiastes 3:12. This verse teaches us that we can find happiness and purpose when we rejoice and do good. We achieve this when we serve Jehovah and do his will, enjoying the blessings he provides. We can live in a way that enjoys life while we await the fulfillment of his promises.
Ecclesiastes 3:13. This verse teaches us that enjoying the fruits of our labor is a gift from God. The blessings we receive come from His hand, and we should appreciate and enjoy them with gratitude.
Ecclesiastes 3:14. This shows us that everything Jehovah does is solid and lasting, and no one can change it. It gives us confidence to know that Jehovah has everything under control and that his will will be fulfilled just as he has decided. It is a great comfort to trust in his sovereignty and feel secure in the midst of life's uncertainties, knowing that Jehovah is in control and that his purpose for us is firm and stable.
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