Let's look for hidden gems (10 mins.)
Ecclesiastes 12:9, 10. What do these verses teach us about the men God used to write the Bible? (“Inspiration” par. 10).
It is obvious that the men God used to record the Scriptures were not always automatons merely recording dictated information. We read, concerning the apostle John, that the “God-breathed” revelation was presented to him by an angel “in signs,” and that John then “bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all the things that he saw.” It was “by inspiration [literally, “in spirit”) that John “came to be in the day of the Lord,” and he was told, “What you see, write on a scroll.”
What spiritual pearls have you found in this week's Bible reading?
Ecclesiastes 11:1. The question is: What does this principle have to do with friendships? If we make many, many friends, there will be some who will help us in difficult times. Being generous with others is wise, because when we are in distress, we can receive support.
Ecclesiastes 11:4. The farmer's hopes were increased when a cloud arose in the western regions. However, the farmer who, relying on the variable clouds, held back from reaping would lose. This fact is used as a warning for God's servants to continue their work under any circumstances.
Ecclesiastes 11:7. Both the sun and the light are for the enjoyment of living beings. Thus, Solomon indicates in these verses that it is good to be alive and to "rejoice" before the dark days arrive, that is, old age, which will leave us without vitality. Therefore, we must use our time in the best possible way, praising our God, Jehovah.
Ecclesiastes 11:9. Think of your younger years as a gift from God, because, truly, they are. What will you do with them? You can spend all that energy and enthusiasm having a good time, going from one diversion to another without thinking about the future. But if you did that, “youth and the prime of life” would truly be “vanity.” How much better to spend your youth preparing for the future!
Ecclesiastes 12:8. There is nothing improper about eating and drinking in moderation, and marriage is, in itself, a divine institution. However, if we realize that the normal activities of life have become our primary concern, why not make this matter a subject of prayer? Jehovah can help us keep Kingdom interests first, do what is right, and fulfill our duties to Him.
Ecclesiastes 12:9. Solomon sought to reach the hearts of his readers with delightful words and truly interesting topics, which were worthwhile, since his words, those found in Scripture, are the product of the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. We can accept his findings and wise counsel without reservation.
Ecclesiastes 12:11. Likewise, sound counsel can achieve stabilizing results. Wise people "commit themselves," that is, they find satisfaction in analyzing "the collections of sayings" that reflect the wisdom of their "only Shepherd," Jehovah.
Ecclesiastes 12:14. Like Solomon, we should meditate on what God's Word says about life. Then we will be strengthened in our resolve to fear and obey God. Knowing that Jehovah cares deeply for us draws us closer to Him.
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