Ecclesiastes

DEAR GOD: Help Us To Define Your Ways & Shine Your Light~

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Ecclesiastes 12:13 KJV Desktop Wallpaper - Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter:

In Ecclesiastes 4:6, we read, “Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit.” This verse highlights the value of contentment and peace over the ceaseless pursuit of more, which often brings stress and inner turmoil.

Reflecting on Today’s Times

In our modern world, we are constantly bombarded with messages of materialism and the need for endless productivity. We find ourselves striving for more possessions, more success, and more recognition, often at the expense of our inner peace. This relentless drive can lead to anxiety, dissatisfaction, and a sense of emptiness.

Comparing to Biblical Days

In biblical times, while the context was different, the core human experience remained the same. People worked hard to provide for their families, but they also faced the temptations of greed and the desire for more. The wisdom of Solomon, who authored Ecclesiastes, remains relevant as he calls us to find peace and satisfaction in what we have, rather than constantly seeking more.

Reflective Questions and Moral Thoughts

  1. What are the things you are currently striving for? Are they bringing you peace or causing you stress?
  2. How can you practice contentment in your daily life?
  3. Are there areas where you need to simplify and focus on what truly matters?

Takeaways

  • Contentment: Finding peace in what we have rather than yearning for more.
  • Simplicity: Simplifying our lives to focus on what truly matters.
  • Gratitude: Cultivating a heart of thankfulness for God’s blessings.

Honoring Our LORD

We can honor our LORD by trusting in His provision and recognizing that He is our ultimate source of peace and fulfillment. When we seek Him first, our hearts are aligned with His will, and we can find true contentment.

Supporting Scriptures (KJV)

  • Matthew 6:33: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
  • Philippians 4:11: “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”
  • 1 Timothy 6:6: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”

Meditative Scripture for the Day

“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10

Prayer

“Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, seeking Your peace and contentment. Help us to find joy in the blessings You have provided and to trust in Your provision. Guide us to live lives of simplicity and gratitude, always seeking Your kingdom first. May we honor You in all that we do, finding our rest and fulfillment in Your loving presence. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.”

May these reflections and prayers-but most important the WORD of our LORD bring you closer to the peace and contentment that come from a life centered on our Almighty Father – God Bless You All~

 

Ecclesiastes Bible Study | tlcms.org

DEAR GOD: In Your Commandments I Stand~

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Ecclesiastes 12:13- “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.”

In the heart of every believer dwells a profound love for the LORD. While humans often judge by outward appearances, the LORD delves deeper, searching the hearts of His children. Spiritual growth is an intricate process marked by discipline, patience, and unwavering faith in His Word. It is through persistent seeking of His face and focusing on His kingdom that true spiritual growth occurs.

When navigating the valleys of life, we are faced with a choice: to sink lower in doubt or to stand firm as a soldier of the LORD. True overcomers process their circumstances while placing unwavering trust in the LORD and His promises. By following His commandments, we are fortified, secure, and assured of His constant presence through all the days of our lives.

John 14:21 -“He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.”

The LORD leads us, goes before us, and will never forsake us. His promises are as potent and vital today as they were at the beginning of time. Each tribulation and trial is an opportunity for spiritual growth. We can ask the LORD to speak to our hearts, seeking wisdom and understanding for the reasons behind our trials. While we may not always comprehend why things happen, we can trust that God is working for our good. Sometimes, clarity comes swiftly, bringing beauty from ashes.

God remains a Divine mystery, accessible to us at all times. By seeking Him, we gain understanding and spiritual maturity. Thank Him for all things, and love Him with all your heart.

Reflective Questions

  • How can I better cultivate discipline, patience, and faith in my spiritual growth journey?
  • In what ways can I ensure my actions align with God’s commandments?
  • How can I maintain my trust in the LORD during times of trial and uncertainty?
  • What steps can I take to deepen my relationship with God and seek His wisdom daily?
  • How can I foster a heart of gratitude and love for the LORD in all circumstances?

Moral Takeaways

  • Discipline and Patience: Spiritual growth requires dedication and a patient heart.
  • Faith and Trust: Trusting in God’s promises and His presence provides strength and security.
  • Obedience: Following God’s commandments is a reflection of our love for Him.
  • Gratitude: A heart filled with gratitude enhances our relationship with God and helps us recognize His blessings.

Thoughts on Today’s Times vs. Biblical Times

In Biblical times, the emphasis on fearing God and keeping His commandments was paramount. Today, amidst a fast-paced and often chaotic world, these principles remain essential. Modern believers face unique challenges, but the core message of Ecclesiastes 12:13 is timeless. Our duty to fear God and keep His commandments transcends cultural and historical contexts, guiding us toward a life of spiritual fulfillment and divine connection.

 “LORD-We come before You with hearts open and yearning for Your wisdom. Help us to embrace discipline, patience, and faith as we grow spiritually. Grant us the strength to follow Your commandments and to trust in Your unwavering promises. Lord, lead us through the valleys of life, fortifying our hearts with Your love and presence. May we always seek Your face, finding understanding and peace in Your Divine mystery. Fill our hearts with gratitude for all things and let our love for You shine brightly in all we do. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Proverbs 3:5-6- “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Blessing for the Readers

May the LORD bless you with a heart full of love, gratitude, and unwavering faith. Trust in His promises, follow His commandments, and seek His wisdom daily. May your spiritual journey be enriched with His presence, guiding you through all the days of your life.

God Bless You All~

 

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DEAR GOD: Why Wonder, You Will Reveal All In Your Time~

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Pin by Jenna Woodburn on Life's truths | Gods timing, Bible quotes, Faith

 

Habakkuk 2:3 – For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.

When I start to say, “I wonder, if—” I have to pull those words back, step back, and know God is God, and He has it all under control, and according to His timing and will. It’s not for me to “wonder” or think about things that seem to scurry about in my mind, rambling around and around…nope, God has it all taken care of.  (Be still and know I’m God…Psalm 49:10)

 

Psalms 27:14 – Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

When we wait with conviction in our heart and soul, we become stronger in our faith as we let God be God. As we go forward we can rest in Him, and be comforted by the promises in His Word, and hold on tight to His love and protection…and His wisdom in all things concerning His children.

Romans 5:6 – For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.

Christ came to this earth to “save us” and to give us the foundation and unilateral way to get to Heaven and His Father, our God. He brings us strength, resolve, and conditioning in which we exercise our inner spirit, as He dwells within all those who believe in Him.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 – To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.

My husband and I have been feeling that we need to move within the next several months. However, we haven’t received the full “message” of His timing and His will…so we are waiting for the right season…according to the LORD… to move.

Mark 1:15 – The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.

When it is the perfect time, it will open up. That is to say, doors of opportunity, all things will be clear. There will not be any disparaging lines in the sand, instead they will be boldly outlined for us to move forward. When things are right, and according to His plans, everything goes smoothly. Sometimes, out of nowhere—it happens, and suddenly—wham, you know it’s God’s voice speaking and leading you and directing and guiding you.

Don’t worry, don’t fret, don’t be anxious…The LORD is with you, and will working behind the scenes, when you follow Him, and trust Him, and recognize His Son, Jesus Christ as LORD and Savior—life becomes easier to navigate with Him as your GPS.

“Father, may I always recognize that You are in control of all things, that Your plans, and Your timing, and Your will are perfect, and You want what’s best for Your children, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: THANKS FOR YOUR EVERLASTING LOVE~

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There are many passages in the Bible where the Lord declares that He wants us to enjoy His presence. “God gives wisdom and knowledge and joy to a man who is good in His sight.”  (Ecclesiastes 2:26) Makes one wonder why, despite God’s declarations, that many of His children fail to enjoy His presence.

First, one of the reasons might be that they think God is not approachable, and therefore untouchable. However, nothing could be further from the truth.  God wants a relationship with you, He desires a close and abiding one with all of His children. If people fail to recognize the depths of His love, they’ll miss out on great blessings.

He has an everlasting love, He says to all of us today as He has throughout the ages, that He wants us to come to Him, and have an intimate relationship with Him.  The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. (Jeremiah 3:13 KJV)  

His heart is pure and open, as it so clearly demonstrates throughout the entire Bible.  He is our Father and much like our earthly fathers, longs for a close and honest relationship with His children.  The relationship we share with our Father is an individualized as our DNA. So, although the relationships will be different in how we relate and speak with Him, the connection should be one and the same. We are all HIS and He created us. We belong to Him.  We all share that common denominator.

Second, they may view God as a legalistic God.  He is not a legalistic God.  He doesn’t sit around looking at us, thinking “hmm, let’s see, whom can I condemn today?”  Nor does he sit and scrutinize our actions while investigating our motives. He knows our hearts, and He sees our very soul.  The very soul He held in His hands as He created it. He wants to instead, “set us free” and that is what He did when He sent Jesus. He loved/loves us enough to have sent His Son for us. Embrace that love…hold it firmly, and shine your light from within to all those in your path.

Third, they may be afraid of Him. God calls us in reverence of His holiness, but not to be afraid. He has said so many times in His Word, “Do not be afraid!”    The following are just a few of the more familiar scriptures that show us clearly that the Lord does not want us to be afraid:

After these things the word of the Lord came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward. (Genesis 15:1 KJV) 

And the Lord said unto Joshua, Fear not, neither be thou dismayed: take all the people of war with thee, and arise, go up to Ai: see, I have given into thy hand the king of Ai, and his people, and his city, and his land: (Joshua 8:1 KJV)

And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. (Luke 1:30 KJV)

God loves us the way we are and accepts us fully without any qualms or motives. There really isn’t anything we can do that’ll make us more acceptable, He loves us just the way we are.  He doesn’t like sin but…He loves us, fully and completely just as we are. He forgives us our sins, when we call them to mind and repent of them, thereby allowing us to fellowship with Him further, and opens us up to blessings in abundance. God is a God of forgiveness and love and acceptance.  He also promises restoration.

How can one not enjoy that? Love, acceptance, restoration…and fellowship with your creator, does it get any better than that?

He enjoys being with us. Spend time with Him and begin to trust Him to meet all of your needs.  He’ll never let you down.

Are you ready for the best relationship you’ll ever have in your life?

“Father, thank You for Your love and acceptance, may I always do all according to Your will and purpose in my life, now and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”