Ecclesiastes. Seeing Life Clearly.

Choice 2: 

(a)    The Bible Dictionary says:

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)   Read Ecclesiastes 1–2 and list five ways the author sought happiness but couldn’t find it. After each item on your list, write the reference of the verse where you found it.

1.       Knowledge/wisdom (1:8)

2.       Material things; a home & vineyard (2:4)

3.       Gardens/orchards which yielded fruit (2:5)

4.       A pond where trees could grow (2:6)

5.       Sought treasures/entertainers (2:8)

(c)    Read Ecclesiastes 3:1–8 and compare it with the principles that are taught in Mosiah 4:27; Doctrine and Covenants 10:4; 111:11; Luke 10:38–42. Write a paragraph describing why the timing and order of our activities are so important.

Our Heavenly Father knows how are life is supposed to go.  He puts things in our paths to help us follow along the timeline he has set for us.  He gives us agency to make and keep the commandments in hopes that they will help us make good choices.  As teen’s we are asked to follow for the strength of youth so that we can be worthy to go on missions and then marry in the temple.  Then we are supposed to have a family and continue striving to do what we asked to do.

What do you think the Lord wants you to accomplish during this “time and season” of your life?

I’ve chosen another path, by not attending school when I was younger.  This choice was not a good one, because now I’m sacrificing family/calling time doing schoolwork that I should have done 20 years ago.  It is my time to be a mom and serve in young women’s at church.  I’m here to help my kids and be there for them, as well as the young women in my ward.  There are many things I’d like to be doing, like genealogy, but that will have to wait until my schooling is done.

(d)   As you read Ecclesiastes 4–5, choose two principles to incorporate into your life. Write about them.

Ecclesiastes 4:13-It is better to be wise and grow spiritual strength and knowledge.  I will take time daily to read the scriptures as well as study my school work so that I can increase knowledge in all aspects of my life.

Ecclesiastes 5:2-Be careful with your words and think before you speak.  I’m really quick to judge and do not hold back my thoughts.  I need to wait and consider, before I say something that could hurt another.

(e) Read Ecclesiastes 12:7, 13–14 and answer the following questions:

What happens to us when we die?

Our bodies will be buried, and our spirits will return to Heavenly Father.

What is “the whole duty of man”?

The duty of man is our responsibility to follow God and his teachings.  To put first things first and do what we are supposed to do.

Why is this a good description of man’s purpose?

Man’s purpose is to return to live with Heavenly Father, only by following the Commandments are we able to return to Him.  It is our duty to do what is asked of us and then we will be rewarded with His presence.