SPIRITUAL GEMS: Week of October 20-26, 2025, ECCLESIASTES 9, 10, Answers.

SPIRITUAL GEMS: October 20-26, 2025, ECCLESIASTES 9, 10, Answers.

Let's look for hidden gems (10 mins.)

Ecclesiastes 10:12-14. What warning do these verses give us about gossip? (it “Gossip, slander” pars. 4, 8).

While gossip can be relatively harmless—although it can turn into or lead to slander—slander is always damaging and causes harm and strife. This type of accusation, of course, is defamatory.

Whether the slanderer does so with malicious motive or not, he places himself in a bad light before God, for “everyone who sows discord among brothers” practices one of the things that God hates.

The Greek word for “slanderer” or “accuser” is di·a·bo·los. This term is also used in the Bible as a title for Satan, “the Devil,” the great slanderer of God, indicating who originated the slander.

It's a warning about controlling our words. Whether intentionally or not, we could fall prey to gossip, which could lead us to slander, causing problems for others and, eventually, for ourselves.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

These verses, in describing how foolish words from the mouth of a fool end in calamity that leads to ruin, warn us that speaking without wisdom harms both the speaker and those who hear it. So gossip, even if it seems small, can quickly escalate into slander, destroying good relationships and reputations, both one's own and those of others.

This passage reminds us of the importance of guarding our words; hence, Proverbs 10:19 urges us to be prudent in our speech. Unwise words reflect a lack of wisdom and distance us from godly principles. Furthermore, gossip goes against Christian love, which seeks to edify and protect others.

These verses motivate us to reflect on how we use our words, since, as servants of Jehovah, we must strive to speak in a way that reflects his wisdom and love. For this reason, we must avoid gossip and cultivate uplifting language that honors our heavenly Father and contributes to peace in the congregation.

Ecclesiastes 10:12-14 teaches us that gossip can start with foolish words but end up causing great harm. If I speak without thinking or repeat things I don't know are true, I can ruin friendships and damage my own reputation. That's why I prefer to think before I speak and stay away from gossip.

When we hear others speak ill of someone, we try not to participate or follow the conversation. Sometimes it's tempting to weigh in, but remembering this passage helps us stay calm and avoid getting involved in things that could later cause problems. It's better to use our words to encourage, not to harm.

In the congregation, if we avoid gossip, we help maintain peace and trust among the brothers. We all make mistakes, but talking about them behind someone's back doesn't solve anything. It's wiser to pray for the person or speak directly to them if necessary. This demonstrates maturity and Christian love.

These verses from Ecclesiastes warn us about the dangers of gossip and slander, highlighting that careless words can lead to disastrous consequences. Gossip may seem harmless at first, but it can turn into slander and cause harm and strife.

Slander is always harmful and places the practitioner in a bad light before God. The connection between the term di·a·bo·los—slanderer—and Satan, the great slanderer of God, underscores the seriousness of this type of behavior and the importance of guarding our words.

It's interesting to note how the Bible emphasizes the importance of controlling our tongue and being mindful of the words we speak, as they can have a lasting impact on our relationships and our relationship with God. Biblical wisdom encourages us to reflect on the power of our words and strive to speak with kindness, truth, and love.

What spiritual pearls have you found in this week's Bible reading?

Ecclesiastes 9:1. Although calamity strikes the wise and the righteous, this happens only by God's permission, and He will never abandon them. By God's hand, or applied power, the righteous can be delivered from a trial or given strength to endure it. Remembering this can comfort Jehovah's servant when he finds himself in difficulties.

Ecclesiastes 9:4. Work should be part of your life, not your entire life. So take care of your health and get enough rest. There's no point in becoming a slave to work and sacrificing your health, family, and friendships for triumphs that are, in reality, imaginary.

Ecclesiastes 9:7. A person who truly lives a meaningful and fulfilling life engages in works in which Jehovah delights. This requires constant consideration. This attitude is very different from that of most people, who approach life in strictly human terms.

Ecclesiastes 9:17. Life is precious, and God wants us to enjoy it. Since we have no control over life's outcome, it is best to listen to divine wisdom, even if most people don't appreciate it. In view of life's uncertainties, we must guard our hearts, exercise caution in all we do, and act with practical wisdom.

Ecclesiastes 10:1. We must be careful with our actions and speech. A single slip—such as a furious reaction, excessive alcohol consumption, or an unchaste action—is enough to ruin the respect and good name we once enjoyed.

Ecclesiastes 10:2. Since we have no control over the outcome of life, it is best to listen to divine wisdom, even if most people don't appreciate it. In view of life's uncertainties, we must guard our hearts, exercise caution in all we do, and act with practical wisdom.

Ecclesiastes 10:8. Since any of us can die suddenly, we should use our lives in Jehovah's service, in case death puts an end to all we do. We also need to be skillful in our service, because ineptitude—even in simple matters, such as digging a hole or chopping wood—can cause us harm and damage others.

Ecclesiastes 10:9. We need to be skillful in our service, because ineptitude—even in simple matters, such as digging a hole or chopping wood—can cause harm to ourselves and others. Hence the importance of doing things with diligence and care.

Ecclesiastes 9:1. It reminds us that the lives of the righteous and wise are in Jehovah's hands. This truth gives us peace when we face uncertainty. Knowing that Jehovah is in control helps us trust in Him, even when we don't understand what's happening around us. This lesson serves to strengthen our faith in times of trial.

Ecclesiastes 9:2,3. It shows that everyone, regardless of their conduct, faces death. This reality teaches us that we should not live with arrogance or contempt for others in the ministry. This lesson motivates us to preach with urgency, knowing that everyone needs hope before their end comes.

Ecclesiastes 9:4. This verse says, "A live dog is better than a dead lion." This expression teaches us that, as long as there is life, there is opportunity. In the congregation, this lesson encourages us to value every brother, even if he is spiritually weak, because as long as he is alive, he can grow strong and serve Jehovah.

Ecclesiastes 9:5, 6. It teaches us that the dead have no awareness or participation in what happens. This truth protects us from false ideas about death and gives us comfort. In daily life, it helps us focus on what we can do now, without fear of the dead or the traditions that venerate them.

Ecclesiastes 9:7. It encourages us to joyfully enjoy what Jehovah allows us to do. This lesson helps us maintain a grateful and positive attitude, even in simple tasks. In our daily lives, it helps us not to live bitterly or complain, but to value every blessing.

Ecclesiastes 9:8. This verse speaks of wearing white clothing and oil on one's head; this conveys the idea of ​​living with dignity and joy. In the congregation, this lesson reminds us to maintain a good spiritual image: clean and pleasing, reflecting that we are at peace with Jehovah.

Ecclesiastes 9:9. It encourages us to enjoy life with our beloved wife. This is a lesson for daily life that teaches us to value marriage as a gift from Jehovah. It urges us to cultivate love and joy in the home, without letting worries rob us of that joy.

Ecclesiastes 9:10. He exhorts us to do everything with all our strength. This lesson is vital for ministry; it reminds us to preach with enthusiasm, without procrastination, because in the grave we will not be able to serve. It motivates us to give our best now.

Ecclesiastes 9:11, 12. These verses teach us that success doesn't always depend on skill and that unexpected events happen to everyone. This lesson applies to our daily lives: it helps us not to rely on our abilities or luck, but on Jehovah, and to be prepared for the unexpected.

Ecclesiastes 9:13-15. They show us that wisdom can save, even if it isn't always recognized. In the congregation, this lesson teaches us to value wise counsel, even if it comes from humble people. It reminds us that true value lies not in appearance, but in the wisdom that comes from Jehovah.

Ecclesiastes 9:16. It tells us that wisdom is better than strength, even though it is sometimes despised. This lesson is helpful for the ministry: it encourages us to use Jehovah's wisdom, not human methods, to touch hearts. Therefore, it reminds us that what counts is what builds up, not what impresses.

Ecclesiastes 9:17. It highlights the value of the wise man's calm words. In congregation, this lesson teaches us to speak calmly, without shouting or imposing. It helps us cultivate an atmosphere of peace and respect where wisdom can flourish.

Ecclesiastes 9:18. He concludes that wisdom is better than weapons, but that a single sinner can destroy much good. This lesson applies to daily life and the congregation: it alerts us to the harm that a bad attitude or reckless action can cause. It invites us to protect unity and peace with wise conduct.

Ecclesiastes 10:1. It teaches us that a little foolishness can ruin wisdom. This lesson is for everyday life; it reminds us to guard our reputation and not allow small mistakes to overshadow years of good example.

Ecclesiastes 10:2. It shows us that the wise take the right path. This lesson is useful for the ministry; it encourages us to follow Jehovah's guidance, even when the world takes a different direction. It gives us confidence as we walk the narrow path.

Ecclesiastes 10:3. It reveals that a fool betrays himself by his conduct. In the congregation, this lesson helps us discern who we should be wary of and motivates us to cultivate good judgment so as not to be a cause of stumbling.

Ecclesiastes 10.4. They teach us that calmness can quiet great sins. This lesson is very useful in daily life and in the congregation; it reminds us not to react with anger, but with serenity, to avoid conflict and restore peace.

Ecclesiastes 10:5-7. These verses show injustice in the assignment of positions. This lesson is useful for the congregation; it teaches us not to be discouraged if we are not recognized and to trust that Jehovah values ​​competence and humility, even if the world does not.

Ecclesiastes 10:8, 9. It warns us about the risks of work. This lesson is useful for everyday life; it calls us to be prudent, not to act thoughtlessly, and to take precautions in everything we do.

Ecclesiastes 10:10. It teaches us that wisdom makes things work. This lesson applies to ministry and daily life; it motivates us to prepare and sharpen our spiritual tools so that our efforts are more effective.

Ecclesiastes 10.11. It shows that if the snake bites before being charmed, the charmer's art is useless. This lesson reminds us that timing is key. In ministry, it teaches us to act quickly before it's too late.

Ecclesiastes 10:12-14. They contrast the words of the wise and the foolish. This lesson applies to daily life; it calls us to be careful what we say, because our words can build up or destroy. It teaches us to speak with purpose and wisdom.

Ecclesiastes 10:15. It shows that the foolish person exhausts himself without achieving anything. This lesson is for daily life; it teaches us that without direction and understanding, effort is wasted. It motivates us to seek guidance from Jehovah before acting.

Ecclesiastes 10:16, 17. Contrast two types of rulers. This lesson is useful for the congregation; it teaches us to value mature leadership that acts responsibly and to avoid immaturity that seeks pleasure rather than service.

Ecclesiastes 10:18. It warns us that laziness causes deterioration. This lesson is for daily life; it calls us to be diligent, to not neglect our responsibilities, because what is neglected leads to ruin.

Ecclesiastes 10:19. It reminds us that money covers needs, but it shouldn't be the center of life. This lesson helps us maintain balance and enjoy what Jehovah gives us, without falling into greed.

Ecclesiastes 10:20. It teaches us to be careful with what we say, even in private. This lesson is vital for everyday life; it reminds us that our words can carry far and that we must be loyal and respectful, even if no one is listening.

Ecclesiastes 9:1. This text teaches us that instead of worrying about the future, we rest in God's sovereignty. Our lives and our talents are under the loving care of a wise God. Keeping this in mind can alleviate our stress and anxiety.

Ecclesiastes 9:4. It teaches us that, as long as there is life, there is hope and opportunity. Jehovah God has given us today. Let's not waste this time regretting the past or fearing the future. Our today is full of potential to grow, improve, and do things better, and to step out of our comfort zones.

Ecclesiastes 9:5. This text makes us think that our life is finite, and therefore motivates us to value every moment and focus on what's truly important. The organization has encouraged us to reflect on what if this were our last month of life: what relationships would we value most and what insignificant activities would we let go of?

Ecclesiastes 9:7. This text teaches us that Jehovah wants us to enjoy our daily activities, such as eating and drinking. It is important to be grateful and appreciate such moments, which are gifts from Jehovah. This is also the joy that comes from Jehovah.

Ecclesiastes 9:8. The "white garment" symbolizes purity and the anointing with the oil of the Holy Spirit. This motivates us to live each day with integrity and holiness, which is our Christian identity. As we begin our day, we can consider: How can I clothe my attitude and actions with purity and holiness today?

Ecclesiastes 9:9. In a fleeting life, deep relationships are a precious treasure. Jehovah gives us human love, such as marriage and family, as a refuge of joy and companionship in the midst of a vain world. This motivates us to give them attention and quality time.

Ecclesiastes 9:11. This text reminds us that life is not predictable. This frees us from the anxiety of “success,” as the world sees it. Our task is not to control the results, but to be faithful. Jehovah is in charge of the outcomes, even when they are unexpected.

Ecclesiastes 9:18. It teaches us that we must take care of ourselves, especially of our friends or the people we give space to in our lives. A single moment of need or sin can undo years of good work. This truth motivates us to walk with humility and dependence on God.

Ecclesiastes 9:18. It teaches us that it is important to pray to Jehovah for discernment to identify areas of our lives where a little negligence could cause us great harm, and to ask Jehovah for wisdom to strengthen those areas.

Ecclesiastes 10:1. It teaches us to pay attention to the details. A small oversight, a negative comment, or a bad habit can taint a reputation, a relationship, or a valuable project. Excellence lies in paying attention to the small things.

Ecclesiastes 9:5. This text reminds me that the dead have no conscience and do not suffer, so there is no reason to fear them or believe they can help or harm us. Knowing this gives me great peace and helps me avoid being swayed by superstitions. It also makes me appreciate the time I have to serve Jehovah while I am alive, because when one dies, one can no longer do anything.

Ecclesiastes 9:7. This verse teaches me that Jehovah wants us to enjoy life in a healthy way. It's not just about working or worrying, but about having a balance. If we are faithfully serving Jehovah, we can joyfully enjoy the simple things: a meal, family, friends, or a peaceful day. That, too, is part of his blessing.

Ecclesiastes 9:10. Here we are encouraged to give our best in everything, especially in spiritual matters. We should not do things half-heartedly or half-heartedly, because this life is our only opportunity to serve Jehovah. This motivates me to put in more effort in the preaching work, in my assignments, and also in my work, knowing that Jehovah values ​​diligence.

Ecclesiastes 9:11. This text teaches me that not everything depends on being strong, wise, or prepared. Sometimes things change in a moment. It helps me not to rely solely on my own plans or feel frustrated when something goes wrong. Instead, I must learn to trust Jehovah more, because He is the only One who can help us face life's unexpected events.

Ecclesiastes 9:18. This makes me think that a single reckless act can undermine the efforts of many people. In the congregation, for example, if someone misbehaves or acts with pride, it can disrupt the peace of the group. Therefore, it is better to act with wisdom and humility, always seeking peace and not letting pride or recklessness undermine what others have done well.

Ecclesiastes 10:1. This shows how fragile a good reputation can be. Even if someone has acted well for a long time, a single mistake or bad attitude can ruin that good image. This encourages me to be careful with my words and actions, especially when representing Jehovah, because maintaining a good reputation takes effort, but losing it can be very easy.

Ecclesiastes 10:4. This text teaches me to remain calm when someone in authority corrects me. Instead of responding proudly or arguing, I should humbly accept the correction. Sometimes, remaining calm prevents the problem from escalating. In the congregation, at work, or at home, patience and humility help more than an impulsive reaction.

Ecclesiastes 10:18. This text teaches me that if we don't attend to our responsibilities in a timely manner, problems accumulate. The same thing happens spiritually: if I skip meetings, personal study, or preaching, my faith gradually weakens. Being consistent and hardworking protects me, just as taking good care of a house prevents it from deteriorating.

Ecclesiastes 9:1. This text teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty and to accept that there are things we cannot understand. It motivates us to live in a way that pleases God, taking advantage of every moment and seeking His guidance and protection. It also reminds us that life is short and that we should use it to do good and serve God wholeheartedly.

Ecclesiastes 9:2. This verse teaches us that, from a human perspective, life can seem unfair because both the righteous and the unrighteous experience similar situations. However, as Jehovah's Witnesses, we know that God sees everything and that His justice will prevail in due time. It encourages us to trust in divine justice and not to judge only by appearances.

Ecclesiastes 9:3. This verse teaches us that life on earth can be unfair and frustrating, but it encourages us to trust in God's justice and wisdom that will prevail in due time.

Ecclesiastes 9:4. It teaches us that as long as there is life, there is opportunity to serve God and do His will. It encourages us to take advantage of every moment to seek and serve Jehovah, and to not give up in the face of difficulties. It also reminds us that life is a precious gift that we should use to honor God.

Ecclesiastes 9:5. It reminds us that life is short and that we must take advantage of the time we have to seek and serve God, since after death there is no consciousness or activity.

Ecclesiastes 9:7. This verse teaches us to enjoy the fruits of our labor and find joy in the simple things in life, recognizing that God approves and blesses our efforts.

Ecclesiastes 9:9. This verse encourages us to enjoy and value time with our spouse, in harmony with biblical principles, and to cultivate a strong and happy marriage based on love, mutual respect, and loyalty, following the biblical advice to treat our spouse with love and consideration and enjoy life together in a way that pleases God.

Ecclesiastes 9:10. This reminds me to work diligently and with effort in everything I do, knowing that God has given me the ability to do it and that my work should be done as if I were working for Jehovah.

Ecclesiastes 9:11. This reminds me that, even though I try my best and plan, there are times when the weather and unforeseen events are beyond my control, and I must trust in God's sovereignty and perfect direction in my life.

Ecclesiastes 9:12. This verse teaches us that life is fragile and can change in an instant, and that we never know when difficult times or the moment of our death will come, so we must be prepared and live each day wisely and in harmony with Jehovah.

Ecclesiastes 10:1. It reminds us that, as Christians, we must guard our conduct and words, since a small mistake or foolish attitude can damage our reputation and that of Jehovah's organization, and negatively affect our relationships with others and with God.