Ecclesiastes - Seeing Life Clearly

(a) The book of Ecclesiastes consists of reflections on some of the deepest problems of life, as they present themselves to the thoughtful observer. The author describes himself as “son of David, king in Jerusalem”. Ecclesiastes is written from the point of view of the world, everything is temporary and soon gone—nothing is permanent. Ecclesiastes should not be construed as theological pronouncements on the condition of the soul after death; rather, they are observations by the Preacher about how things appear to men on the earth “under the sun.”

(b) Five ways the author sought happiness but couldn’t find it:

     1. Lavish houses and vineyards (Ecclesiastes 2:4)
     2. Planted gardens and orchards with trees of various fruits (Ecclesiastes 2:5)
     3. Pools of water (Ecclesiastes 2:6)
     4. Servants and maidens (Ecclesiastes 2:7)
     5. Silver, gold, and peculiar treasures (Ecclesiastes 2:8)

(c) There is a plan and purpose for all of God’s children. These lives have been intertwined and orchestrated with purpose and love in order to help the Lord’s work progress and prepare us for our return to our Father in Heaven. It is also important that things are done in wisdom and order, seeking out the best direction and path so that we may progress and endure. It is not intended for us to do more than we are capable of. Furthermore, if we are selfish and seek after our own goals without thought for the Lord, we stand to lose the blessings and protection that accompany obedience and diligence. 

(d) “Two is better than one” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12) This principle reminds me of the importance of working alongside my husband and family. It teaches us the importance of friendship and uplifting one another to be better. The strength of two always outweighs the one and so should be used for good. In order to incorporate this into my life, I will seek more opportunities to serve and uplift others. 

“The profit of the earth is for all” (Ecclesiastes 5:9) All that we receive is a gift from God. We have no right to withhold from those that are in need and should seek opportunities to share what we have with other. Furthermore, teaching others to be self-sufficient so they can do the same. When we have an increase, we should return a portion. Even God does not take more than is needful. To incorporate this principle, I will commit to greater fast offerings and seeking more opportunities to help others. 

(e) After we die, our bodies are buried in the earth, but our spirits “return to God”. “The whole duty of man” while we are on this earth is to fear God and be obedient to His commandments. This is a good description of man’s purpose because it reminds us that we are not hear for our own selfish and prideful desires but to learn from our Father so that when we die we may return to Him. There is no other reason to be on this earth than to prepare to return to our Father in Heaven. (Ecclesiastes 12:7, 13–14)