Jun 19 (Daily reading: Ecclesiastes 1-6) Today and tomorrow we will consider some conclusions that Solomon reached in his reflections and recorded in Ecclesiastes. 1st conclusion: To find satisfaction in our work “is from the hand of God. For who can eat and who can have enjoyment without Him?” (2:24-25). The person who “sees good in all his labor—this is the gift of God” (3:13). We ask ourselves: is Jesus the Lord of our workplace?
2nd conclusion: “There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every matter under heaven” (3:1). Walking with God is the only way we can be ready for whatever life brings!
3rd conclusion: “He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart, without the possibility that mankind will find out the work which God has done from the beginning even to the end” (3:11). Even if humans do not know the end of things, or what will become of all their labors, God knows! “I know that everything God does will remain forever; there is nothing to add to it and there is nothing to take from it” (3:14). What He leads us to do; what He does through us, “will remain forever!” We can trust Him!
4th conclusion: “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor; for if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion” (4:9-10). And what if a third is added? “A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart” (4:12). There is value in community, in sharing, in togetherness. This is proof that we do need the encouragement of one another!
5th conclusion: “Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income” (5:10, NIV). This is so true! Solomon also wrote: “Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil” (Prov. 15:16, NIV).
– Al Gary
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