We’re halfway through This Is the Old Testament, our thematic overview of the Old Testament. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. This week, we’ll finish our look at the books of Wisdom Literature and begin the last sections of the Old Testament, the Major and Minor Prophets.
What Is Ecclesiastes? The book of Ecclesiastes, likely written by Solomon, examines practical and philosophical questions, observing that following wisdom doesn’t guarantee a positive outcome. Ecclesiastes wrestles with the tension and difficulties of life.
How Ecclesiastes Fits Into the Story: Ecclesiastes awakens us to our own mortality, begging us to seriously consider how we should live with the time we’ve been given. It removes the façades we use to disguise the fact that life is short and all our accomplishments in this world will pass away. In this way, Ecclesiastes anticipates the New Testament teaching that only God’s grace, and not our zeal, saves us.
Reflection Questions:
1. How might reflecting on eternity influence how you live in the present?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.
Maura , Searching, and everyone who prayed for me thank you. I am feeling better about the procedure today. It is in 2 weeks, continued prayer is so very much appreciated- it is powerful and works! I will be praying for the requests listed here! Tina, so good to hear from you! Angie, your comment really made so much sense out of a book that usually depresses me and makes me wonder why we are even here if everything is meaningless and futile? I love everyone’s perspective, especially those who said it “takes the pressure off” as I struggle with intense anxiety at times. Bless you all and have a wonderful day!
Hi Tina!!
Todays study I found myself reflecting on my married side of the family. They pursue knowledge more than most. I appreciate their intelligence, but I find that it hinders them from believing in God. I was told recently that the Bible was written so far back that it isn’t meant for us. I find so much comfort and wisdom through studying the Bible and I find it sad that so many miss out on God’s word. I’m not strong enough in my knowledge to share. They always trip me up. I pray that God will give me the words to share when these comments are made. I have nothing without the love of God. I pray that todays readings will shape my days. To truly see what is important and what is not.
For those that pray for my son, I thought I should update. I believe he had another stroke back in October. He has neuropathy from that incident. We are working with a PT to bring his balance back and some strength. Tanner has beat the odds so many times, that I know God is with him. When he was young he said to me, “mom I bet you wish you had a child without Cystinosis.” What a hard question from your 8 year old. I told him that for him yes, for me it has taught me what is important in life. It changed who I am. It brought me to God. Thank you SRT ladies for continued prayers for us.
Angie, thank you for the word picture of playing a game and the time spent together. May we all seek to spend time with our Gracious Lord and gain wisdom to navigate the challenges we face. Praying for you all. Tina, glad to know you are well.
@ Tina, Thankful you are well! Just know you have been greatly missed! Prayers that things calm down for you, But God. ❤️
Angie, your words so good, the teacher in you blesses me. Thankful for all the ways you serve Jesus. Solomon’s words while full of the futility of life, also show me the nothing we have in the world without our Lord. And, if my focus is in my accomplishments, the work of my hands, the things that make me feel good momentarily instead of the God who provides the opportunities, made these hands, and brings me joy in the moments then I am left with nothing. But the love of the Almighty gives me joy in the sorrow, strength when I am weary and peace in the storm. I have been angry in this turning of my life, please Lord release any emotions that are not from You and guide me in strength and wisdom, for I know who You are, and all the ways You provide for me. Praying for you Sisters, Mari V, happy for you and your daughter, may your travels and the wedding all be full of joy. praying safety and His blessings on your nephews marriage. Victoria E, praying His peace to cover you. For you and your husband, and all to be blessed and a blessed little miracle. Sarah Joy, praying with you. Praying they know that Jesus is with them in the depths and knows and feel His love meeting them there. Blessed Beth, I could feel the smile of your heart in your words. Praying joy in your fellowship. God is good. Brenda Johnson, praying for Brayden to find Jesus in these years, the One who gives wisdom and joy. And communication, peace for you.
ERB – I so loved your post this morning. Especially about the potsherd, lovely to consider. Isn’t He good. He who formed the light and created the darkness, made all things and stretched out the sky. Sent part of Himself, even after man fell, even into our lost souls, to shed His very blood, for these worms. I am sorry my friend I did read and there is much more to say, but I just realized the time and must get myself going. Hugs and Joy to your day. Love to all of you Sisters.
Ecclesiastes takes the pressure off. It reminds me of when you give a child a new game. They need to be taught how to play it. Sometimes they will win, sometimes they will lose. They may gain strategies, and improve in their skill as time passes. Sometimes it will be great fun, and other times frustrated by loss. But the game is temporary, it is not what really matters. The real value comes in the time spent together, the relationship, the love.
Ecclesiastes reminds us that this life on earth is temporary. We have a Father, our King, who has created us with purpose for eternity. As we play this game of “life” we learn, grow, and change. It is not about the victories or loses. What really matters is the relationship-the time we spend with the “Teacher” of the game. What really matters is the love, fear, and awe for God that prepares us for our purpose in eternity with Him. That takes a lot off my shoulders as I trust Him with yesterday, today, and eternity. We already have a winner in this game of “Life.” His name is Jesus and He loves me (and you).
Ecclesiastes 12:13 “…the conclusion of the matter is this: fear God and keep his commands…”
I can’t do anything truly worthwhile apart from fearing God. I can’t do anything to earn my own salvation apart from believing in Jesus. Everything that I may do in my life will fade away, which can be sobering/depressing, but it can also be a source of peace. Since redemption isn’t mine to accomplish I can rest in Him, have peace in Him, and enjoy!
Amen Phoebe! Thanks for this