JW Comments

In Ecclesiastes 7:1-4 I learn a very profound truth: the day of death is better than the day of birth, and it is better to go to a house of mourning than to a house of feasting. It teaches me that the day of death is the conclusion of a person’s life and what really matters is how their life ended, not how it began. Going to a house of mourning makes us reflect on the reality of life, while the laughter of the fool can be empty. This benefits us by reminding us that serious reflection is more valuable than superficial pleasure. It motivates us to live in such a way that when our end comes, our life has been a testimony of faithfulness to Jehovah.

In Ecclesiastes 7:5, 6 I learn that it is better to listen to the rebuke of a wise person than to the praise of fools. Rebuke, though it may hurt, is a gift that helps us grow. The praise of the senseless, on the other hand, is empty, like the crackling of thorns burning. This benefits us by helping us be humble and value biblical correction, as it helps us improve. It protects us from vanity and focuses us on what really matters: Jehovah’s approval.

In Ecclesiastes 7:8 there is a very practical gem: “Better is the end of a matter than its beginning.” It teaches me the importance of perseverance and patience. What matters is not how we start a project or a path, but how we finish it. This benefits us by reminding us that we must be patient with ourselves and with others. It encourages us not to give up and to follow Jesus’ example, who finished his course faithfully.

In Ecclesiastes 7:10 it teaches me not to ask why the former days were better than these, because that is not from wisdom. It benefits me by reminding me that nostalgia for the past can cloud our judgment and rob us of the joy of the present. Instead of lamenting what was, we should focus on what is and what will be, trusting that Jehovah is in control. It encourages us to be optimistic and to find joy in the here and now.

In Ecclesiastes 7:12 there is a very valuable gem: “Wisdom is a protection just as money is a protection,” but wisdom “preserves the life of its possessor.” It teaches me that although money can protect us from some problems, true security and life are found in the wisdom that comes from Jehovah. This benefits us by helping us value divine wisdom above material riches. It motivates us to keep studying the Bible and applying its principles, as they are our best protection.

In Ecclesiastes 7:14 I learn the importance of humility and resilience. It teaches me that God makes both the good days and the bad days, and that we cannot be sure what will happen to us in the future. This benefits us by reminding us that life is unpredictable and that we must be flexible. It motivates us to be grateful on good days and to be strong and trust in Jehovah on bad days, knowing that He is with us in both.

In Ecclesiastes 7:20 there is a gem that fills us with humility: “There is no one righteous who always does good and never sins.” It teaches me that we are all imperfect and that no one can be perfect on their own. This benefits us by helping us be compassionate and forgive others when they make mistakes, because we do too. It reminds us of our need for Jehovah’s mercy.

In Ecclesiastes 7:21, 22 it teaches me not to take to heart every word people say, because surely we too have said things we regret. This benefits us by helping us be more tolerant and less sensitive. It invites us not to listen to gossip and not to take things personally.