Read Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die. Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
We don't have to be a philosopher or a scientist to know that times and seasons are a regular part of life, no matter where we live. Were it not for the dependability of God-ordained natural laws, both science and daily life would be chaotic, if not impossible. Not only are there times and seasons in this world, but there is also an overruling providence in our lives. From before our birth to the moment of our death, God is accomplishing His divine purposes, even though we may not always understand what He is doing.
Solomon affirmed that God is at work in our individual lives, seeking to accomplish His will. All of these events come from God, and they are good in their time. The inference is plain: If we cooperate with God's timing, life will not be meaningless. Everything will be beautiful in its time (v. 11), even the most difficult experiences of life.
Things like abortion, birth control, mercy killing, and surrogate parenthood make it look as though humanity is in control of birth and death, but Solomon said otherwise. Birth and death are not human accidents; they are divine appointments, for God is in control. Psalm 139:13-16and Ephesians 2:10 agree that God has so woven us in the womb that our genetic structure is perfect for the work He has prepared for us to do. We may foolishly hasten our death, but we cannot prevent it when our time comes, unless God so wills it.
Applying God's Truth:
Read Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 and identify any of the times and seasons you seem to be going through right now.
Can you think of an instance when recognizing God's timing brought meaning to your life? In what way?
How might you discover more meaning in life by letting go of certain things and turning to God instead?
We hope you have enjoyed Warren Wiersbe's study in Ecclesiastes. To continue this study, purchase his book Devotions for Contentment and Wisdom, published by David C. Cook.
Devotions for Contentment and Wisdom ©2005 by Dr. Warren Wiersbe. Used by permission of David C Cook. May not be further reproduced. All rights reserved.