JW Comments

In Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 I learn that there is a set time for every activity under the heavens. It teaches me that in life, both in the natural world and in our experiences, there are cycles and seasons. There are moments of joy and of sadness, of gain and of loss. This benefits us by reminding us that not everything in life is constant and that we must be patient and discern the “season” we are in. It helps us not to despair in difficult times and not to be overconfident in times of prosperity, recognizing Jehovah’s sovereignty over time.

In Ecclesiastes 3:11 is one of the most valuable gems of the book: “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has even put eternity in their hearts.” It teaches me that although humans cannot fully understand God’s work, He has made each thing at the right time and in a beautiful way. He has given us a sense of eternity and a longing to live forever, which proves that death is not a natural state. This benefits us by giving us the certainty that Jehovah’s purpose is for life to be everlasting, which gives us a firm hope and helps us see life in its full context, not just our brief passage through it.

In Ecclesiastes 3:12, 13 I learn that there is nothing better for a man than to rejoice, do good and enjoy his hard work, because this is a gift from God. It teaches me that true joy is not found in the pursuit of wealth or selfish pleasure, but in the simple things of life and in serving others. Enjoying our work and the gifts of life is something that comes directly from Jehovah’s hand. This benefits us by motivating us to be grateful and to find joy in daily blessings, without having to seek happiness in grand things.

In Ecclesiastes 3:14 it is important that “everything the true God does will last forever. There is nothing to add to it and nothing to take away from it. The true God has done this so that people will fear him.” It teaches me that Jehovah’s works and purposes are perfect and unchangeable. We cannot alter what He has decided, and that is why we must have the proper fear of Him, respecting His will and His standards. This benefits us by reminding us of the futility of opposing Jehovah’s purposes and the wisdom of humbly submitting to His will.

In Ecclesiastes 3:17 I learn that the true God will judge both the righteous and the wicked. It teaches me that although in the world we may see injustice and wickedness in places where there should be justice, Jehovah will not overlook it. There will be a time of judgment and accountability. This benefits us by giving us comfort and peace, knowing that Jehovah is the Supreme Judge who will correct all injustices at the right time. It encourages us to keep doing what is right, regardless of what others do.

In Ecclesiastes 3:19, 20 I learn that humans and animals have the same end: death and returning to dust. It teaches me that, from a purely physical point of view, there is no difference. This benefits us by reminding us of the humility we should have, recognizing our fragility. Nevertheless, verse 11 gives us the hope that God sees us differently, since He has put eternity in our hearts, which shows that His purpose for us is higher than for animals.