Hope-in that day and Today

Read Isaiah 4.

God never leaves us without hope.  Even with the stinging indictment against Judah in chapter 3 into verse 1 of chapter 4, there is hope for the future.

Yes, the Babylonians would come and take most all of them away.  Everything would be lost with only a remnant remaining in the land.  The resettlement did not begin until after 70 years of captivity.  However, even a cursory reading indicates much more than a return of the people.  God is not through with His people, nor has He forsaken His unconditional promises made to Abraham.  There is a hope and a future for the Jews.  One day, as explained in Romans 11, "...all Israel will be saved" (v.26).

A key indicator is the phrase "in that day."  Most often, those words move the prophecy to that future day when Messiah will rule and reign over the world from Jerusalem.  Other passages teach that reign on earth will last for 1,000 years.  What will "that day" look like?

1. Messiah will be glorified. (v.2)
In John 15, Jesus referred to Himself as the Vine.  Here, and in Jeremiah 23:5 and Zechariah 3:8, Messiah is called the Branch.  The later speaks to Messiah's lineage as He will be a branch of the family of King David (see Matthew 1).  This gives Him the legal right to sit on the throne as King of Kings and fulfill the promises made to David in 2 Samuel 7.

2. The people will be holy.  (v.3)
No longer will they be known for rebellion and sin.  They will be and behave as God's people, set apart just for Him.

3. The nation will be cleansed. (v.4)
Immorality and violence characterized the sins of the past.  But "in that day", the people will live in forgiveness and the land will be washed from all "the filth" of their history.

4. God's presence will be visible. (vv.5-6)
Just as Israel experienced in the wilderness wanderings of Exodus, so "in that day" the very personal and caring presence of God will be felt and seen.  Everyone in the world will know that once more the LORD has taken up residence in Jerusalem.  This has not been evident since the Temple veil of the Holy of Holies was torn at the crucifixion (Matthew 27:51).  The flaming fire not only speaks of judgment but also will provide comforting warmth and light in the cool of night.  The canopy of a cloud will provide protection during the heat of the day, "a refuge and a shelter."

These elements God wants to fulfill in each of us today.  When we allow Him to rule and reign as Lord of our lives, we experience His forgiveness, cleansing from our past, and each moment enjoy His wonderful presence.  "You have made known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore." (Psalm 16:11)

What happened to our Country?

Read Isaiah 3.

God announced that Judah would lose everything as a kingdom.  Their basic needs of bread and water would be taken away.  They would not be able to find a leader.  There would be a complete breakdown of society.

Why?  What prompted this decision?
"...because their speech and their deeds are against the LORD, defying his glorious presence." (v.8b)

1. They forgot that God is the Owner of all things.
Judah reached a point where they thought life and the country belonged to them.  They thought they got here on their own and they could say and do whatever they wanted without any accountability.

2. They forgot that God is the Sustainer of all things. 
So, when the nation openly defied Him and then chose to ignore Him, God simply withheld His support and supply.  Notice how pervasive His sustenance is to people.  It is total.

3. They forgot that God is the Omnipresent.
They not only decided not to give God His rightful glory, but they disregarded even His very presence.  They lived as though God did not exist.  Like Sodom, they showed no shame for their sin.  The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8, "For God has not called us for impurity but in holiness.  Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you."

There are two separate messages to individuals within the nation.
"Tell the righteous that it shall be well with them." (v.10)
Even though the kingdom of Judah would collapse, God will take care of His own.  Under pressure?  Yes.  But He will provide and protect those who say and do what is right according to the word of God.  Namely, this became true of men such as Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego when the Babylonians took them from Judah in the captivity.  This is a consistent principle of God's loving care of the godly throughout the Scriptures.

"Woe to the wicked!  It shall be ill with him." (v.11)
Not everyone will experience the blessings of God, have their prayers answered, and spend forever with Him.  Those who defy God will pay an awful price both here and in eternity.

Beating swords into Plows

Read Isaiah 2.

How often this phrase has been lifted from the Bible and even depicted in a famous sculpture: "They shall beat their swords into plowshares."  It is used internationally to speak of a day when there will be no more war.  It would be most helpful if the entire chapter were read instead of lifting only a part of one sentence.

Indeed, the LORD did reveal to Isaiah that such a day is coming.  He called it "in the latter days" and three more times as "that day."  But in great contrast to the thinking of unbelievers, this is not a day of negotiated peace between the nations.  Rather, it refers to the return of the Messiah who will rule and reign over all the nations from Jerusalem.

What will that day look like?
1. Jesus will teach the nations. (v.2-3)

This is not only for the Jews, but "all the nations" will make their way to Jerusalem to be taught how to live for God.  Proverbs 16:7-"When a man's ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him."  The secret to world peace is not pacifism but both parties doing what is right according to God's Word.  Without that, sin and greed for power will lead to war.

2. Jesus will judge the nations. (v.4)
As Isaiah will prophesy later in this book, the "government shall be upon his shoulders" as the "Prince of Peace."  He will decide between nations and they will obey Him.  Psalm 2 tells of the Father offering this position to the Son and encouraging the nations to repent.  This will not be a happy time for those who rebel against Him.  Twice, Isaiah predicts, the haughty will be humbled.  Insanely, unbelievers will try to hide from "the terror of the LORD."

3. Jesus will be exalted among the nations. (vv.11, 17)
God's judgment is prompted by individuals and nations who refused to bow before His Sovereignty.  Humans are incurably prone to worship something or someone.  In the attempt to replace the LORD, idols and philosophies of all sorts are generated by Satan to distract people from the truth.  But in that day, all the foolishness of sinful thinking will be brought under control and "the LORD alone will be exalted."

The good news is that no one need wait to repent of sin and trying to live apart from God.  Isaiah's invitation is to respond now.  "Come, let us walk in the light of the LORD." (v.5)

A call to stop Worship

Read Isaiah 1.

God's chosen people were in deep trouble.  At the root was their spiritual rebellion against the LORD.  The nation had divided and formed two kingdoms.  The ten tribes in the north, as the majority, maintained Israel as their kingdom name.  The two tribes in the south that included the city of Jerusalem took the tribal majority name of Judah.

In response, God sent his spokesmen, the prophets, to deliver His word to the people.  Isaiah preached and ministered in the south throughout the reign of four different kings.  Many have compared these 66 chapters to the 66 books of the Scripture and referred to it as a mini-Bible.  All the themes of Word of God may be found in the rich writings of Isaiah.  The messages came to him through visions directly from the LORD Himself (v.1).

Immediately, we are told what the problem was.  The nation forgot that God was the Owner of all things and that they were to be good stewards of what He had given to them.  Instead, they sinfully thought they could live however they wished and ignore the Owner's expectations of them.  Incredibly, all the while, they never stopped going through the motions of worship.  They showed up at the right times, even offered their sacrifices, and prayed.  They forgot that acceptable outward obedience of worship is to be the response of a heart that is right with God.  Without it, the outward displays proved meaningless.  The message was to stop!

Note God's personal responses:
"I have had enough." (v.11)
"I cannot endure iniquity and solemn assembly." (v.13)
"...my soul hates..." (v.14)
"I am weary of bearing them." (v.14)
"I will hide my eyes from you." (v.15)
"I will not listen." (v.15)
The LORD wants us to pray, to worship corporately, and to offer our sacrifices of praise and giving.  But first the sin must be removed.  God does not condemn people merely to make them feel guilty but with this strong message He also provides the solution.

1. "Wash yourselves."
2. "Remove the evil."
3. "Cease to do evil."
4. "Learn to do good."  Once we have repented of our sin and received His forgiveness, what are some of those good things that please God?
     -Seek justice.
     -Correct oppression.
     -Bring justice to the fatherless.
     -Plead the widow's cause."

3 characteristics of true Love

Read Song of Solomon 8.

This chapter is a rich conclusion to the book.  It recounts how she was protected by her brothers growing up (v.8).  When she matured, she had resisted sexual temptation (v.10).  Then, she met Solomon in one of his vineyards (v.11).

The middle verses contain some of the most powerful statements of human love in the entire Bible.

1. True love is persistent. (v.6a)
The signet seal is an official stamp.  Once done, it is not to be tampered with or altered.  The marriage vows state that regardless of any change in circumstances-for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health-the couple is to love and to cherish each other.  Her request was that such a seal be upon all his thoughts and his actions.  True love never gives up.

2. True love is passionate. (v.6b-7a)
There is someone for everyone.  Like death, true love is no respecter of persons, stage of life, or status.  It happens to all of us.  Love is a burning desire to give oneself and to be with that one person.  This is very different from lust, whose only goal is to get.  The phrase may be translated "the very flame of the LORD" as in the ESV and the NIV notation.  Not only is this kind of love acceptable to God, He is the Creator of such emotions.  With that literal translation, it is the only reference to God in the book.

3. True love is priceless. (v.7b)
No amount of money can buy love.  Trying to do so will only result in that one being despised.  True love is given.  It is gift that one freely offers to another.

In Ephesians 5, we learn that marriage pictures to an unbelieving world our relationship with Christ.  How a wife shows respect to her husband and the manner in which a husband demonstrates love to his wife, tells everyone around them, "This is how Jesus loves me!"

Love requires giving and Receiving

Read Song of Solomon 7.

Love involves giving and receiving; initiating and responding.

1. Giving. (vv.1-9a)
As the poem continues, the husband described in detail why he was so attracted to her.  He began at her feet and went all the way up to her head in praising her beauty.  Of course, this was not the first and only time he did this for her (chapter 4).  And, she had done the same for him (chapter 5).  It would be only a guess that not many couples intentionally and verbally praise each other's physical attributes and personal attractions.  Yet, such allurements lead to love-making.

2. Receiving. (vv.9b-10)
The flip side of giving such praise is thoughtfully and emotionally receiving it.  Insecurities and realities cause us to focus on what we perceive as our imperfections.  That makes it difficult for many to accept that someone else finds us attractive.  Often, praise can be dismissed or ignored as insincere.  Receiving love may be more difficult than giving it.  Here, the wife felt her husband's love and his desire for her.

3. Initiating. (vv.11-13)
As the passions peaked, it was the wife who suggested they get away together for the purpose of sexual intimacy.  It was she who said, "I will give you my love"… "which I have laid up for you."  The husband does not always need to be the initiator.

4. Responding.
There are three practical areas of creating romantic responses.
>Be attentive.
Throughout the day give attention to each other.  Someone once said that sex begins in the kitchen.  In other words, treating each other lovingly throughout the day builds anticipation.
>Be affectionate.
Throughout the day express love by words, touches, hugs, and kisses.  It should be a way of life, not just for specific times.
> Be available.
Making private time a priority is crucial to the relationship.  Some are morning people.  Others are night owls.  Being spontaneous and having fun together requires one or both to be willing to give time and energy in order to receive love.  

The two became One

Read Song of Solomon 6.

"What's mine is yours."  That statement announces unreserved surrender of one person to another.  There is no holding back, no secrets, and no place for selfish protection.  Giving up a sense of ownership to a spouse for life is a Biblical understanding of marriage.

The Apostle Paul wrote in no uncertain terms, "The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rights, and likewise the wife to her husband.  For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does.  Likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does"

"But I have my rights," some would say.  "It is my body and I can do what I want," others claim.  Maintaining those views of personal rights will not only violate the Scriptural statements of marriage, but they will hinder and then destroy the relationship.

Notice the statements from the text expressing this sense of belonging.
Husband: "This is my beloved and this is my friend." (5:16)

Wife: "I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine." (6:3)

Husband: "My dove, my perfect one, is the only one..." (6:9)

Jack S. Deere comments that her nickname, Shulammite (v.13), in Hebrew is a feminine form of Solomon.  Others so identified her with her husband, as a couple, that they referred to her in that manner; Solomoness, if you will.

Eve was called Woman "because she was taken out of Man."  The declaration was "therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they all become one flesh" (Genesis 2:23-24).  Oneness is not sameness.  Rather, it is two opposites that complement each other to form a whole.

2 elements of a healthy Marriage

Read Song of Solomon 5.

This chapter highlights two more important elements in maintaining a healthy marriage.   Some changes in the personal references would indicate that no longer are they newlyweds.  If a couple is not careful, they may take each other for granted.  What they used to say and do for each other can feel unnecessary to them.  Other things become more important, transferring time and attentiveness elsewhere.  They grow apart instead of continuing to cling to each other.

1. Her availability to him. (vv.1-9)
Again, she dreamed about him.  In what seems to be a near nightmare, he came to see her but the door was locked.  It was too inconvenient for her to get up, pull something on, and get her feet dirty to let him in.  Then, in a change of mind, she ran through the streets looking for him.  But unlike her dream in chapter three, this time the city watchmen mistook her for a criminal.  Was this dream displaying her guilty feelings?

Wives can busy themselves with the rightful duties of household chores, their own work, taking care of children, talking to friends, etc. that they ignore their most important human relationship.  All energies and time are spent and there is nothing left for her husband when he is available.

If being available to one's spouse is deemed as an inconvenience, some decisive changes are in order and quick.

2. His attractiveness to her. (vv.10-16)
In chapter four, Solomon kept saying she was beautiful and then gave eight specific reasons to support his feelings.  Here, it is the wife who did that for him.  He was handsome to her and she said so.  Beyond his general appearance, she mentioned nine things about him that she liked.

Husbands have feeling also.  A man needs to sense that his wife respects him, values him, and is attracted to him.  Silence is not golden on this subject.  Likewise, this means that a husband must be a man of inward character and attentive to his appearance.

Attraction on the wedding Night

Read Song of Solomon 4.

Rogers and Hammerstein asked a great question in Cinderella, "Do I love you because you are beautiful or are you beautiful because I love you?" 

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder."  In other words, it is a relative and individual evaluation.  The Apostle Paul wrote in another context that comparing ourselves among ourselves is not a wise thing to do.

"Beauty is only skin deep."  Character trumps outward looks.  God had to remind Samuel that humans look on the outside but the LORD sees the heart.

The truth is that we do see the outward appearance of each other and make certain evaluations.  And, a man is attracted to what he sees.

The wedding night description begins here in chapter 4.  They are finally alone for intimacy.  Solomon took the lead and repeatedly speaks of her beauty.  But more than just a declaration of his love, he detailed what attracts him to her.  Eight distinct features are mentioned: her eyes, hair, teeth, lips, mouth, cheeks, neck and breasts.

As his emotions heightened, his focus is not on himself, but her.  He compared her to a wonderful, fruit-filled garden.  "Locked" (v.12), as a virgin, she welcomed him (v.16).  He thoroughly enjoyed making love to her (5:1).

While one's culture, family background and personal preferences guide our likes and dislikes, a woman should always be mindful of her appearance and attractiveness to her husband.  For a wife, it is her husband's appreciation that truly counts.  Husbands need to take notice and regularly express such appreciation.

The foundations of a Marriage

Read Song of Solomon 3.

Few days in the life of young lady is more anticipated than her wedding.  The Bible does not give any instruction about a wedding ceremony itself, except that it does involve a public commitment of a man and a woman for life.  God clearly holds marriage in the strictest sense of honor and purity.

"Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous." (Hebrews 13:4)

Every wedding in the Bible includes three things that are always present: wedding guests, wedding garments, and food.

After some time of courtship, the couple's love reached a zenith.  It was time for the ceremony.

1. He was the man of her dreams. (vv.1-5)
After the visit in chapter 2, Solomon left her and her heart left with him.  She loved him so much she could not stop longing for him.  At night, she dreamed that she wandered the streets searching for him.  And, when at last she found him, she took him home with her.  But it was only a dream.

2.  He was the man of her destiny. (vv.6-11)
The wedding day arrived.  She was at the appointed place and waiting.  Then, afar off she and the guests could see the groom's procession- "here comes the groom."  Not only was he the king, but in eastern culture the groom was the focus of attention at the ceremony.  Solomon appeared accompanied by an entourage of 60 armed men.  He came on a royal throne of silver and gold.  On his head was the crown that Bathsheba had given him in 1 Kings 2:13.

There is nothing else in life that compares to two people who are so committed to each other that they willingly and publicly promise faithfulness to each other until their death.

4 signs for women of Mr. Right

Read Song of Solomon 2.

The unnamed bride expressed her love for Solomon and explained in romantic terms why he was the right man for her.  With her humble background, she looked for reassurances.  In verse 3, she said of all men, this one surprisingly stood out among the rest.  Why?  What were those indicators that caused her to want to spend the rest of her life with him?

This is a good checklist for all women in their days of dating.  And, these are some absolute reminders for men on how to treat women.

1. She felt safe with him. (v.3b)
His presence ("shadow") provided a spot of comfort.  Her favorite emotional place was to be in his arms.

2. She enjoyed him.  (v.3c)
Over time, they had enough experience to know one another.  She not only loved him, she liked him; especially, his kisses.

3. She felt special among his friends.  (v.4a)
The king escorted her into his banquet.  Everyone present took notice as he lovingly wanted to show her off.

4. She felt honored by him in public. (v.4b)
The army in the field held the nation's banner high with a sense of pride.  In the same way, in his love for her, he wanted others to take notice of them as a couple.

She was so taken back by all this that she swooned with weakness.  She could hardly wait to see him, to have something sweet to eat, and for him to hold her.  Then, he arrived (vv.5-17).

Conversations of a Courtship

Read Song of Solomon 1.

The wise king wrote 1,005 songs (1 Kings 4:32) but of all of them, this is his "Song of Songs."  Through the years many have taken various views on the book, but it is important to maintain a consistent view of interpreting Scripture.  All of Scripture must pass the tests of historical, grammatical, and literal contexts with the whole of the Bible.  Indeed, "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness." (2 Timothy 3:16)

Jack S. Deere stated it well in the Bible Knowledge Commentary: "The purpose of the book is to extol human love and marriage.  Though at first this seems strange, on reflection it is not surprising for God to have included in the biblical canon a book endorsing the beauty and purity of marital love.  God created man and woman (Genesis 1:27; 2:20-23) and established and sanctioned marriage (Genesis 2:24).  Since the world views sex so sordidly and perverts and exploits it so persistently and since so many marriages are crumbling because of lack of love, commitment, and devotion, it is advantageous to have a book in the Bible that gives God's endorsement of marital love as wholesome and pure." (BKC pp.1009-1010)

The elements of the conversation between these two are the same for all healthy relationships prior to marriage.  These same exchanges can help maintain a healthy marriage also.
1 Her desire for him. (vv.1-4)
The bride anticipated the time when she would finally be alone with the king.  She longed for his kisses and expressions of his love.  But it was not only his physical attraction that wooed her.  It was his "name," reputation or character, that motivated this longing for him.  At the end of verse 4, a chorus of unidentified others, possibly family or friends, confirm the rightness of this relationship.  Having conducted a few score weddings, it is crucial that a couple have wise counsel and support of others around them.

2. Her feelings of inadequacy. (vv.5-7)
The bride expressed some insecurity about herself and her background.  She explained that she did not grow up as a daughter of privilege.  Her sun tanned appearance was the result of working in her family's vineyard and pasture.  In other words, this girl was a commoner about to marry a king.  Would she be looked down upon or would she be truly accepted?

3. His verbal reassurance. (vv.8-11)
"If you do not know by now...," is the reply.  The soon-to-be groom tried to allay her fears with his statements of love and affirmations of how beautiful she is to him and others.  The comparisons he used do not convey the same message very well to the western mind.  But in the style of Solomon's day, these were romantic things to say.  The voices of others quickly added that jewelry would be made and given to her for even greater compliments to her beauty.

4. Her sighing. (vv.12-14)
Like an intoxicating fragrance, this man was constantly on her mind and stirred an increasing desire for him.

5. His specific appreciation. (v.15)
Solomon simply responded with how attracted he was by her beautiful and peaceful eyes.

6. Her feelings of confidence. (vv.16-17 and 2:1)
The bride thought he was handsome and charming.  Further, she seemed pleased with the environment of their courtship.  Then she made the bold statement of her sense of self-worth.  Common flowers, but she felt beautiful and admired because he said so.  His opinion was all that mattered.

7. His confirming words. (v.2:2)
To him, she was a beautiful flower.  All the other women he considered thorns.  There was no one else for him but her.

Two actions are required for such a conversation: men who will express their love and women who will receive it.

3 words for the next Generation

Read Ecclesiastes 12.

Out of his wisdom and experience, Solomon wrote for the next generation.  In the book of Proverbs, he often began a passage with the words, "my son."  Here, he spoke to "youth."  The immediate context begins in chapter 11.

1. Rejoice. (11:9)
Living for God is not equal to being glum.  Of all people, those who have experienced the love and forgiveness of the LORD should be the happiest humans on earth.  Enjoy life to the fullest.

2. Remove. (11:10)
And, while you are having fun, be sure to stay away from evil.  Yes, everyone will inevitably have their share of hurts and disappointments from things totally out of their control.   But, the warning is to not bring pain and sorrow on yourself by personal sin.

3. Remember. (12:1-14)
Solomon closed this book with three sobering lifetime reminders.

We are only here for a short time. (vv.1-8)
This is the best description of the aging process in the Bible.  Our bodies were never meant to last but a few years at best.  The question every person should be asking is, "Then what?"  We are not left in doubt.  The LORD answered the question with clarity.  Eternity awaits.  Where one will spend eternity when the spirit leaves the body depends upon how an individual responded to Jesus and His offer of forgiveness in this life.
For those without a commitment to Christ-
"...just as it is appointed for a man to die once, and after that comes judgment..." (Hebrews 9:27)
For those committed to Christ-
"Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord." (2 Corinthians 5:8)

We must have God's wisdom while we are here. (vv.9-12)
The number of voices calling for us to live by their made-up philosophies has no end.  They are all distractions, energized by Satan himself, to keep people from enjoying a personal relationship with God both here and in eternity.  All true wisdom comes from the LORD, that one true Shepherd of life.  His wisdom nails down the absolutes and urges us on to do what is right.

If we live for God, we will fulfill our purpose for being here. (vv.13-14)
It is called "the whole duty of man."  Everything else is temporal and one day we will leave it all behind.

4 Things you do not Know

Read Ecclesiastes 11.

The wisest who ever lived did not know everything.  Four times in six verses Solomon tells us some things we do not know.

1. You do not know what may happen with an investment. (vv.1-4)
Generosity and/or investing in opportunities always carry risks.  One can never tell how coming to the aid of another person or an organization may reap dividends.  But nothing ventured means nothing gained.  Many never give to their church or to help others.  Some never invest in things that matter due to selfishness, laziness, fear of what might happen, or procrastination (v.4).  Profits and rewards only go to those who gave of themselves and their resources.
"Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will repay him for his deed." (Proverbs 19:17)

2. You do not know how human life is formed. (v.5a)
Certainly, the process of is known.  Babies are born.  But the intimacy and intricacies of what God does in the womb to bring all the physical, spiritual and personal elements together is a mystery.
"For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb.  I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made." (Psalm 140:13-14a)

3. You do not know the work of God. (v.5b)
This is the completion of the thought above.  Not only is human life the work of God, but everything is His.  We can see the results of the LORD's handiwork, but we do not know what, when and how He will move next.  Jesus said that the way of the Spirit is like the wind.  We do not see the wind; only the effects (John 3:8).  As Sovereign Creator, He is the rightful Owner and Sustainer of all things.
"The earth is the LORD's and the fullness thereof, the world an those who dwell therein." (Psalm 24:1)

4. You do not know what will lead to success. (v.6)
The illustration is of a farmer sowing seed.  He is totally dependent upon the soil, the sun, the amount of rain, and timing.  All out of his control.  Yet, if there is to be a harvest, he must go to work.  He will work hard.  He will probably diversify into planting more than one or two crops to increase the possibility of increased profits.  Then, after he has done all he can do, he must trust God for the outcome.
"So...whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31)

Be Careful!

Read Ecclesiastes 10.

Solomon spoke 3000 proverbs and wrote 1005 songs (1 Kings 4:32).  This entire chapter, and into the opening verses of chapter 11, is given to wise observations that teach by contrast or comparison.  Here we are warned that a life of wisdom can be overturned in a moment.

1. A wise person is careful about their directions. (vv.1-9)
One may live for God and do great things in His name.  Many people may benefit from their service.  Then, with a single foolish decision or act their entire reputation may be destroyed and considered worthless.  The highway sign is a good reminder: Keep Right.
"Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil." (Ephesians 5:15-16)

2. A wise person is careful about their duties. (vv.8-10)
Such a one wants to be the most effective and efficient person on the job.
"...not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man..." (Ephesians 6:6-7)

3. A wise person is careful about their discussions. (vv.12-20)
People respond best to gracious or kind words.  No one enjoys the endless, meaningless rants of a fool.  And, one can never tell where those words, once said, may end up.
"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." (Ephesians 4:29)

4 indicators of a thankful Person

Read Ecclesiastes 9.

Call it a rat race or a rut, but life without hope is dangerously depressing.  Looking at life from only a horizontal perspective, the same stuff happens to everyone.  Nice guys sometimes do finish last.  So, where is the benefit for one who loves God and tries to do what is right?

When Solomon presented life "under the sun," it was always with a futile tone.  But then in his wisdom he added the view from God's perspective.  The conclusion is that only those who live for the LORD can truly appreciate what God has given to them and enjoy life.

How do people show they are living a life of gratitude to God for all He has done and possess great hope for their future?  Here are four practical principles to observe.  Each of these is a personal choice we make.

1. A thankful person with hope enjoys their food. (v.7)
One who is depressed often loses their appetite.  More than saying a prayer of gratitude before eating, this refers to actually taking time to appreciate the meal.  Too often in a fast-food world, people are hurrying to get on to something else.  Without slowing down the pace and engaging in good conversation, food can become a necessary inconvenience.

2. A thankful person with hope gives attention to their appearance. (v.8)
A person who is depressed will most often show it in the way they look.  Their countenance will be down.  They cease to care about their weight, clothing, hair and face.  While we cannot always judge a person by their outward appearance, one who lives a life of gratitude and hope cannot hide it.

3. A thankful person with hope loves their family. (v.9)
Specifically, the wife is mentioned here.  A marriage is a life-long commitment regardless of the changes in circumstances-for better or worse, richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish.  Remembering that a spouse and children are gifts from God renews the appreciation and care of the relationships.  Forgetting that fact, and treating wedding vows as dispensable, is an affront to God and a sign of selfish ingratitude.

4. A thankful person with hope engages in their work. (v.10)
Notice a person who does not like their job.  They become lax in details.  They only want to do the minimum to get by.  They cannot wait to get off work.  But one who is grateful to have a job, to be able to care for their needs, and appreciates the opportunity God has given them, shows up energized.

3 life management Essentials

Read Ecclesiastes 8.

The wisest man who ever lived gives advice on how to enjoy life.

1. Relating to authority. (vv.2-9)
Obey those over you.  This essential is not only for those in power who are godly and right.  The Apostle Paul expanded upon this principle in Romans 13:1-4 with Nero as Caesar.  Five times in that passage Paul stated that those in authority over us have been placed, represent, serve and use force on God's behalf.  Pride and selfishness in the heart wants to rebel and get our own way.  And, what if the authority is wrong or out-right evil?  Solomon wrote, "...the wise heart will know the proper time and the just way" in dealing with it (v.5).

2. Recognizing accountability. (vv.10-13)
Fear God.  The greatest deterrent to lawlessness is quick justice.  Because the consequences for sin are not immediate or speedy, the wrong-doer thinks he may get away with it.  The United States Constitution guarantees a speedy trial but the justice system takes years to prosecute.  Even one found guilty of a capital crime may sit on death row for a couple decades or more without the sentence being carried out.  This distances the crime from the punishment in such way that it refocuses attention on the court system instead of the evil.  Lack of accountability and fear of God becomes the result.

3. Rejoicing on the journey. (vv.14-15)
Enjoy what you have.  Worrying and grumbling about what we do not have will kill our joy.  Yes, life is full of hard work.  Yes, there are hurts and hardships along the way.  Not everything will turn out the way we planned or wanted.  Yet, when we remember that God is sovereign and in control, that our lot in life is not a mistake, that God loves us and extends His grace every moment, that one day we all will stand accountable for what we did with what He gave us, that we have a home waiting in heaven, then we of all people have cause to enjoy this temporary life.

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared before hand that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10)  Live like God's masterpiece today.

Thinking through the Issues

Read Ecclesiastes 7.

After presenting those three thought-filled questions in chapter 6, Solomon then spoke to the issues in a series of "better than" statement.

1. Choose the better. (vv.1-9)
The sum of one's life is comprised of the choices made.  Some choices are eternal; some are major; most are daily.  Practically no one attends a celebration to listen and learn.  It is in the sobering moments of life that we become eager to hear a word of wisdom.

2. Count on the wisdom of God. (vv.10-12)
Where is the advantage?  It is in possessing wisdom along with our material things.  Wisdom from the LORD will give us what money cannot buy; namely, protection and preservation of life.

3. Consider the work of God. (vv.13-14)
Learning to be content with what God has provided is the secret to a satisfying life.  The Apostle Paul learned this lesson through the difficult times and the good times.  "I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound.  In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need." (Philippians 4:12)

This wisdom from God is available.  Why then are not more people living is a wise way?
The answer: personal sin.  "Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins." (v.20)  That is why one must come to the LORD and deal with their sin to begin a life-journey of wisdom.  “The fear of the LORD is the beginning…” (Proverbs 1:7).

Stop! Think about It.

Read Ecclesiastes 6.

In the book of Psalms, there are frequent musical rests inserted with the word Selah.  It is a pause.  Even though we do not have the psalmist's music score, that word encourages us to pause and think about what was just read.  If chapter 6 had been a psalm, then I would expect a Selah in capital letters at the end.

From Solomon's observations, he concluded the following:
1. There is no satisfaction in Luxury. (vv.1-2)
Just amassing stuff will bring no contentment in life.  Not only are the material possessions we have gifts from God, but even the ability to enjoy them is a gift from Him.

2. There is no satisfaction in Longevity. (vv.3-6)
More time on earth does not equal success or a contented life.  Being surrounded by a huge family with all their potential love and support will not meet the direst need of the human heart.

3. There is no satisfaction in Labor. (vv.7-9)
"Well, I'd be happy if my needs were met."  So, we work even more.  But there is no end to a person's felt needs and wants.  As Solomon observed, all earnings are consumed.  The word "appetite" (v.7) is the Hebrew word for "soul."  The soul is not satisfied by more work.

Then, Solomon asked three questions in verses 10-12.
-So, what's the use?

-Who knows what is good for man?

-What will happen after we are gone?

The answers are in chapter 7. But until then, SELAH!

"If only I had..."

Read Ecclesiastes 5.

"If I only had .....(complete the thought)...then I would be happy."

Dreaming and doing are mostly healthy activities for the mind and emotions.  Dreams can keep us going.  Doing can provide a sense of accomplishment.  Solomon not only envisioned great things but achieved them along with enormous wealth.  So, here is his wise counsel to the rest of us.

1. Listening to God. (vv.1-2)
Worshiping God is a given in this verse.  The question is why do we come?  Yes, there are things to give and do in ministry, but the priority should be to hear what God has to say to us from His word.

2. Giving to God. (vv.3-7)
When promises and/or commitments are made to the LORD, He holds us accountable to fulfill them.  How many know they should be serving God in some way?  How many have agreed that God expects them to tithe as a minimum and be generous beyond that in their giving?  How many have stood before God and witnesses to promise themselves exclusively to their spouse, regardless of circumstantial changes, until their death?

3. Living for God. (vv.8-20)
Without the LORD, people will become disillusioned with the emptiness of life.  They will dream and involve themselves with activity so they do not have to think about their hurts and the discouraging world around them.  Solomon mentioned those who are oppressed and seeking justice.  Next, he was very specific that money does not satisfy.  Then, he mentioned how a lack of generosity and the potential loss of money through bad investments make trust in riches even less desirable as a life goal.  So, what are we to do?
-Recognize it is God who "has given wealth and possessions and power."  This is the first lesson of stewardship.
-Rejoice in what He has already provided.  This is the secret to contentment.
-Remember so there can be joy in your heart.  This demonstrates understanding that life-our time and resources here-is a gift from God.

What are you doing under There?

Read Ecclesiastes 4.

A friend asked, "How are you doing?"  The answer, "The best I can do under the circumstances.  The comeback, "Well, what are you doing under there?"

Solomon spoke of what life is like "under the sun" or only from a human perspective.  Without an eternal purpose, disillusionment and discouragement will set in.  People are being mistreated and hurt without any comfort or resolve.  All a person's hard work appears in vain and left to others once they are gone.

To paraphrase his question in verse 8, "Why am I doing this?"

The answer to that question is more important than what one is doing.  It goes straight to our motives and purpose in life.  Am I doing this for my physical health and well-being?  As important as that is, it will only prove to be temporal for a few years.  Am I doing this for financial strength and, perhaps, independence?  The best of us are financially vulnerable to the economy around us and one day we will leave 100% of it behind to others.  Are we doing it for altruistic reasons?  Making life better for others is a noble and honorable endeavor on any level.  Everyone should be involved in some way to help those in need, but in the end it is a band aid, not a solution to the most important lasting need.

When one has God's perspective on life (above the sun), the scenery and sense make a stark contrast.  We discover how the LORD designed us.  We do things that he gifted us to do.  As we work and serve the needs of others, it is with eternity in view.  Our life message is far beyond our personality, experience or achievements.  When we introduce another to a personal relationship with the living God, their lives are changed for now and forever.

Living life with a heavenly perspective is more than positive thinking.  It is understanding and appreciating what God is doing in us and the world.  

Is it time Yet?

Read Ecclesiastes 3.

The first part of verse 11 in this chapter is the Romans 8:28 of the Old Testament.  "He has made everything beautiful in its time."  That statement and the beautiful song written by Diane Ball have sustained us over the years.
"In His time, in His time
He makes all things beautiful in His time
Lord, please show me every day
As You're teaching me Your way
And I'll do just what You say
In Your time.

In Your time, in Your time
You make all things beautiful in Your time
Lord, my life to You I bring
May each song I have to sing
Be to You a lovely thing
In Your time."

The human dilemma is that we want life done by our plan and on our time schedule.
1. Time is sovereignly controlled by God. (vv.1-8)
The seasons and circumstances change but they are cyclic.  The LORD who invented time in Genesis 1, continues to oversee the universe and the flow of individual life.  David wrote in Psalm 31:15, "My times are in your hand."

2. There is a time for everything God wants done. (vv.9-10)
Satisfaction is work and the use of time begins with the recognition that this is a gift from God for us to accomplish His will.  Our ability and opportunities to earn come from Him.  "You shall remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth." (Deuteronomy 8:18)

3. Time is temporal. (v.11b)
Life here on earth is only a brief preparation for where and how we will spend eternity.  Every human has an empty place inside.  Blaise Paschal, the brilliant French mathematician and philosopher, envisioned that within the heart of every person is a God-shaped vacuum that only the Lord could fill.

4. Our time here is a test. (v.18)
Too often when life circumstances appear to be against us, we can fall into the emotional trap that God's faithfulness is being tested.  He must come through for us in order to prove Himself.  The opposite is true.  Circumstantial changes and seasons of life are tests of us.  Will we be faithful and trust Him no matter what?  Tests come along, in His timing, to help us to mature in our faith.

What's the Use?

Read Ecclesiastes 2.

Learning from one's mistakes is the road of personal growth.  Learning from the mistakes of others is the road to wisdom.

Life is a pursuit.  When we do not know, when we have never had the experience, when we do not own, we are left to our dreams and imagination.  But what if we could have it all?  What would that be like?  Would it bring the happiness and satisfaction we seek?

One of the great values of this book is to learn from the mistakes of Solomon.  He had it all.  Count the ways he tried to satisfy his soul.  Pleasure, laughter, wine, work, possessions, money, collecting, music, servants, anything and everything was his to the extreme.  But as Peggy Lee's old song asks, "Is that all there is?"  Solomon asked in verse 2, "What use is it?"  After amassing all this stuff, he concluded in verse 11, "There was nothing to be gained."

Ignorance is bliss.  But when a person comes to a place of understanding that none of that stuff will meet their true needs inside and that all of it will one day be left behind, it can lead to despair (v.20).  Solomon understood and could not sleep at night thinking about it (v.23).

Ah, but he knew more.
1. All things come from the hand of God. (v.24)
"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." (James 1:16)

2. Nothing in this life can be truly enjoyed apart from a personal relationship with the LORD and living a life that pleases Him. (vv.25-26)

“…we make it our aim to please him.  For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.” (2 Corinthians 5:9-10)

What do you say to an empty Life?

Read Ecclesiastes 1.

How do you measure a life and its value?  What determines true success?

In 1904, there was a national contest to determine and award the finest definition of success.  After scrutinizing all the entries, the judges selected this one: "He is successful who has lived well, loved much and laughed often."  King Solomon declared in essence at the outset of this book, "I lived well.  I love much.  I laughed often and achieved all my goals.  I had it all; all this life could offer me.  But when I backed off to see the results, I felt empty inside."

The key word he used some thirty-seven times (in one form or another) in these twelve chapters is "vanity."  The word means "vapor" or emptiness.  He goes on to say that his endless desire for more was proved to be a "vexation" to his spirit.  All of his efforts seemed like "striving after the wind."  Catch a handful and there is really nothing there.  Read: no satisfaction.

However, Solomon knew that life did have great meaning.  It simply was not to be found in earthly pursuits.  Throughout the book the "A" part of his message speaks of emptiness.  Fortunately, he does not leave us there.  Each time he presents a "B" part that brings the reader to a point of hope.  Apart from God, we are destined to measure life only by achievements that produce culturally accepted results.  But true success in life is much more than being famous, how many sales were closed, or how much profit was made.

Five passages in the book of Ecclesiastes explains that God gives us temporal, material possessions to enjoy as a reward for our labors, to please our spouses, to provide for our families, and to use for the glory of God.  Just remember that they are only temporal.  One day we will leave them all behind.

In light of the fact that we will all stand before the Owner of life for accountability, the most important question is how will the LORD measure my life?  How did I respond to His love and offer of forgiveness in Christ?  Did I use the financial resources, abilities, and time He allowed me to have as a good and faithful steward?  Am I only living for "now" instead of what I can enjoy forever?

What to look for in a Wife

Read Proverbs 31.

Solomon wrote, "He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD." (Proverbs 18:22)  But there is more.  "Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. (v.30)

Verses 10-31 is an acrostic poem with each stanza beginning in sequence with the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet.  Such a godly woman is praised and has high personal value (v.10) for who she is and what she does.  In summary, here are 7 qualities that this excellent wife demonstrates.

1. Trustworthy. (v.11)
A marriage is dependent upon mutual trust.  The focus on in this verse is that she is trusted by her husband to take care of her responsibilities in such a way that the household prospers.

2. Hardworking at home. (vv.13-15, 20-21, 27)
She tirelessly insures that her household is clothed and fed.

3. Hardworking outside the home. (vv.16-19, 24)
She buys and sells, has merchandise, and makes a profit.

4. Generous. (v.20)
She not only has a heart for the poor and needy but she actually helps them.

5. A valuable partner. (v.23)
She is an asset to her husband.  He has influence in the community, not only because of what he may do, but also because of her good work and reputation.

6. Strength and dignity. (v.25)
Regardless of the situation, she shows herself to be a woman of stability.  Her behavior is honorable and appropriate.

7. Wise and kind. (v.26)
Her speech is characterized by words of good counsel.  She helps others understand life and living in a kindly manner.

It is a rare woman who has such a heart for God, husband, and family who is also gifted in all the areas above.  How thankful and blessed I am and our family continues to hold Diane in high esteem for being such a woman.  As a gift from the LORD, we give her praise.

5 foundational questions for all Mankind

Read Proverbs 30.

It is by design that humans have inquiring minds to want to know that which is beyond them; to discover how things work; to realize spiritual truth.  How did we get here?  Why are we here?  Where are we going?

Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, these are the words of Agur.  At the outset he wrote of how humbled he felt.  How could anyone be able to follow the wisdom of Solomon?  Yet, God used him here, in verse 4, to ask five of the most foundational questions for all mankind.

1. Who has gone to heaven and back?
Note that in the context this is not a reference to mere space travel.  It is beyond the sky and space to the dwelling place of God Himself.  Unless one has done this, they cannot truly tell us about it.  The answer to the question is Christ Jesus.  He came, He ascended, and He is coming back again.

2. Who controls the wind?
There are scientific explanations of wind current movements and weather but only to a point.  Those are done by observation and not by control.  Earth has been supplied with oxygen in order to sustain life.  We are dependent on the movements of air in so many ways.  There is only One who takes such credit for providing and controlling the wind.

3. Who controls the water?
Without fresh water, human life is not sustainable.  Without appropriate amounts of rain in season crops cannot produce.  Earth is totally dependent on it.  Inexplicable and foolish thinking is required to believe that such a vital element of life is available to us by accident.  There is only One who takes full credit for life on earth.

4. Who established the earth?
The question is not "what" caused the earth to come into being, as is the attempt of all natural explanations.  The question is "who."  God Himself challenged Job (38:4) by asking, "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?  Tell me if you have understanding."  There is only One who claims to be the Creator and Sustainer of the universe.  "For by him (Jesus) all things were created, in heaven and on earth..." (Colossians 1:16)

5. What is his name, and what is his son's name?
Since there is only One who fits the answer to all these questions, humans are not given a choice to decide this on their own.  By asking "his son's name", this God of heaven is relational.  There is One who is the Son of God.  "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)  Through faith in Jesus, we can be welcomed into the very family of God and enjoy a home in heaven with Him.

"Where there is no vision..."

Read Proverbs 29.

"Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law." (v.18)

Due to the King James Version, all too often this verse has been used to promote the necessity of organizational vision development and the warning that without it the organization will die.  That is a leadership truism but has nothing to do with this verse.  Fortunately, newer translations help us understand the accurate meaning.

The vision here is the revelation of God's message delivered to His prophet.  In other words, it is the Word of God that people need to hear.  In the absence of knowing what God has said, people will be left to themselves to determine right from wrong and how to behave.  The Hebrew word translated in the KJV as "perish" correctly means "to loosen" or, as in the ESV, "cast off restraint."

An illustration of Proverbs 29:18 may be found in Exodus 32.  Moses was still on Mt. Sinai receiving commandments of the law from the LORD.  With no word from God and concerned about what may have happened to Moses, the people became impatient demanding they take spiritual matters into their own hands.  They wanted to make idols of gold, like the pagan nations around them.  They gave credit to these made-up gods for delivering them from Egypt!  Without restraint, they presented offerings in worship to their idols, feasted, and then they "rose up to play."

All false teaching stems from a lack of studying and understanding the Scriptures.  A major part of our mission is to teach all that God has commanded (Matthew 28:20) so people know how to obey the Lord.