Ecclesiastes 1-6 Digging for Spiritual Gems: (8 min.) 3:16, 17.

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1 Ecclesiastes 1-6 Digging for Spiritual Gems: (8 min.) Ec 2:10, 11 What did Solomon discover regarding wealth? (w08 4/15 22 _9-10) 9 Solomon was one of the richest men on earth when he wrote Ecclesiastes. (2 Chron. 9:22) He had the means to acquire anything he wanted. Anything that my eyes asked for I did not keep away from them, he wrote. (Eccl. 2:10) Nevertheless, he discovered that possessions do not in themselves bring satisfaction. A mere lover of silver will not be satisfied with silver, neither any lover of wealth with income, he concluded. Eccl. 5: Despite the fleeting value of possessions, wealth can still exert a powerful attraction. In a recent survey in the United States, 75 percent of all first-year university students described their principal goal in life as being financially very well off. Even if they reached their goal, would they be truly happy? Not necessarily. Researchers have noted that an emphasis on materialism is, in fact, a hindrance to happiness and satisfaction. A long time ago, Solomon had already reached that same conclusion. He wrote: I accumulated also silver and gold for myself, and property peculiar to kings... And, look! everything was vanity and a striving after wind. (Eccl. 2:8, 11) In contrast, if we use our life to serve Jehovah wholeheartedly and thus receive his blessing, we will obtain true riches. Read Proverbs 10:22. Ec 3:16, 17 How should we view injustices in this world? (w06 11/1 14 _9) 3:16, 17. To expect justice in every case is unrealistic. Rather than feel anxious about what is happening in the world today, we should wait on Jehovah to set matters straight.

2 What does this week s Bible reading teach me about Jehovah? *** w15 2/1 p. 4 How to Enjoy Hard Work *** *** w15 3/1 p. 3 Why We Need to Be Saved *** Everyone should eat and drink and find enjoyment for all his hard work. It is the gift of God. (Ecclesiastes 3:13) If God wanted us to enjoy our work, is it not logical that he would show us how to find such joy? (Isaiah 48:17) Thankfully, he does through the pages of his Word, the Bible. The desire to live endlessly is strong, and it is universal. The Bible tells us that God has put in our hearts a longing for eternity as well as a desire to comprehend it. (Ecclesiastes 3:11) That being so, does it seem reasonable to you that a loving God would put a desire in us that is impossible to achieve? If your answer is no, you are right. God s Word calls death an enemy and promises that it is to be brought to nothing. 1 Corinthians 15:26. *** w15 7/15 pp par. 7 This Is Our Place of Worship *** 7 Our respect for the God who invites us to Christian meetings should be manifested in our decorum, dress, and grooming. Respect also requires that we avoid extremes. It has been observed that while some appear to be overly strict as to what is proper behavior while attending congregation meetings, others may be too casual at the Kingdom Hall. Of course, Jehovah wants his servants and other guests to feel comfortable there. At the same time, those in attendance would not want to detract from the meetings by being overly casual in their dress, by texting or talking during the meetings, by eating and drinking, and so on. Parents should train their children to understand that the Kingdom Hall is not the place for running or playing. Eccl. 3:1. *** w15 8/15 p. 10 par. 5 Meditate on Jehovah s Enduring Love *** imitate him! Eph. 5:1. 5 Jehovah created us with the ability to perform productive and meaningful work that adds to our enjoyment of life. (Eccl. 2:24) He purposed that humans fill the earth, subdue it, and have in subjection the fish, the birds, and other living creatures. (Gen. 1:26-28) And how loving of Jehovah to endow us with qualities that enable us to

3 *** w15 8/15 p. 23 par. 17 Prepare Now for Life in the New World *** 17 Personal interests and pleasures will have their place in God s new world. After all, why did Jehovah create us with a hunger for personal accomplishment and wholesome pleasures if he did not intend to have us satisfy these desires to the full? (Eccl. 2:24) In this and other ways, Jehovah will always satisfy the desire of every living thing. (Ps. 145:16) Recreation and relaxation have their place, but the pleasure derived from them is increased when we put our relationship with Jehovah first. It will also be that way in the earthly Paradise. How wise it is for us to learn to keep personal interests in their proper place while we seek first the Kingdom and focus on the spiritual blessings now available to Jehovah s people! Matt. 6:33. *** w15 9/15 p. 11 par. 11 Is Your Conscience a Reliable Guide? *** 11 Jehovah created humans in a way that makes it possible for them to enjoy and benefit from recreation. Solomon wrote that there is a time to laugh and a time to dance. (Eccl. 3:4) But not every pastime is beneficial, relaxing, or refreshing; nor is it good to engage in recreation too much or too often. *** w15 10/1 p. 13 Can We Really Find God? *** GOD S WAYS: The Bible teaches that man can never find out the work that the true God has made from start to finish. (Ecclesiastes 3:11) Hence we will never know everything about God. The wisdom behind God s ways is beyond tracing out. (Romans 11:33) However, God is willing to reveal his ways to those who want to please him. Amos 3:7. *** w13 6/15 p. 12 par. 2 Appreciate Jehovah s Generosity and Reasonableness *** 2 We enjoy getting better acquainted with those whom we love. Of all the friendships we can cultivate, however, none are more important than our friendship with Jehovah. We will never know all there is to know about him. (Rom. 11:33) Throughout all eternity, we will have the opportunity and joy to deepen our appreciation for Jehovah s qualities. Eccl. 3:11. *** w13 6/15 p. 21 par. 18 Appreciate Jehovah s Loyalty and Forgiveness *** 18 It has certainly been refreshing for us to consider various aspects of Jehovah s loving personality. We have seen that he is approachable, impartial, generous, reasonable, loyal, and forgiving. Of course, we have only scratched the surface. We can have the joy of learning more about Jehovah throughout all eternity. (Eccl. 3:11)

4 *** w12 5/15 p. 21 par. 19 Trust in Jehovah The God of Times and Seasons *** 19 Jehovah God s original purpose for humankind included endless time to learn about him and his beautiful creation. Ecclesiastes 3:11 states: Everything he [Jehovah] has made pretty in its time. Even time indefinite he has put in their heart, that mankind may never find out the work that the true God has made from the start to the finish. *** w12 11/1 pp. 4-5 Question 1: Does My Life Have a Purpose? *** Part of God s purpose for us is that we enjoy life. Solomon wrote: With a man there is nothing better than that he should eat and indeed drink and cause his soul to see good because of his hard work. This too I have seen, even I, that this is from the hand of the true God. Ecclesiastes 2:24. *** w10 2/15 p. 27 par. 11 Welcome to the Best Way of Life! *** Therefore, let us never doubt Jehovah or his desire and ability to help us fulfill our dedication vow. (Eccl. 5:4) The spiritual provisions that God has made for his people are undeniable evidence that he truly loves us and wants us to succeed in serving him.

5 What points from this week s Bible reading can I use in the field ministry? *** w15 1/15 p. 19 par. 5 Build a Strong and Happy Marriage *** 5 The cornerstone of a secure marriage is loyalty and submission to the One who instituted marriage. (Read Ecclesiastes 4:12.) Husbands and wives can include Jehovah in their marriage by following his loving guidance. *** w15 1/15 p. 26 par. 14 Let Jehovah Fortify and Safeguard Your Marriage *** 14 The Bible says that there is a time to be silent. (Eccl. 3:7) This does not mean that we should retreat behind a wall of silence, which blocks necessary communication. *** w15 2/1 p. 16 par. 2 Bible Questions Answered *** Throughout history, governments have failed in many ways to care for their subjects, especially the poor. Some governments are cruel. (Ecclesiastes 4:1; 8:9) But Almighty God has promised to provide a government that will replace all others. Its Ruler will really take care of people. Read Isaiah 11:4; Daniel 2:44. *** w15 2/15 p. 16 Maintain Your Zeal for the Ministry *** We should not assume that a new publisher will acquire teaching skills simply by participating in the ministry. He or she needs personal instruction from a kind and loving trainer. Such training would include showing the less experienced publisher how to (1) prepare and practice a presentation, (2) engage a householder or a passerby in conversation, (3) offer literature, (4) follow up interest, and (5) start a Bible study. Very likely, good results will be obtained if the trainee observes and imitates the methods used in the ministry by the one who is helping him. (Luke 6:40) The new publisher will undoubtedly appreciate having someone with him who can listen and help out if the need arises. The less experienced publisher will also benefit from receiving commendation and helpful suggestions. Eccl. 4:9, 10. *** w15 3/1 p. 3 Why We Need to Be Saved *** How, then, will death be brought to an end? Throughout history, men have struggled to solve the problem of death, but with no success. In modern times, the quest continues. Scientists have developed vaccines and medications that have subdued some diseases. They have peered into the genetic structure of living things. In many places, people, on average, live longer today than they did a century ago. Yet, death is far from vanquished. As the Bible says, all are returning to the dust. Ecclesiastes 3:20. The good news is that we do not have to rely on human ingenuity to solve this longstanding problem. Jehovah God has already arranged for us to be saved or rescued from death, and the central figure in that arrangement is Jesus Christ.

6 *** w15 5/1 p. 4 The End What Does It Mean? *** 1. THE END IS NOT AN EPIC, FLAMING DESTRUCTION OF THE EARTH. The Bible states: [God] has established the earth on its foundations; it will not be moved from its place forever and ever. (Psalm 104:5) That scripture and others assure us that God will neither destroy the earth nor allow it to be destroyed ever! Ecclesiastes 1:4; Isaiah 45:18. *** w15 8/1 p. 16 Bible Questions Answered *** Is this life all there is? Have you ever wondered if there is more to life than just playing, working, marrying, raising a family, and growing old? (Job 14:1, 2) The Bible shows that even very wise people have wondered about this. Read Ecclesiastes 2:11. Does life have some meaning? First, we have to ask, How did life begin? After considering the remarkable design of our brain and the rest of our body, many have concluded that a wise Creator is behind it all. (Read Psalm 139:14.) If so, then he must have made us for a reason! Learning that reason can add great meaning to our life. *** w15 10/15 p. 20 par. 7 Serve Jehovah Without Distraction *** 7 As the Bible warns, there is a danger in making too much use of what the world has to offer. (Read 1 Corinthians 7:29-31.) A Christian can easily waste an excessive amount of time on things that are not wrong in themselves, such as hobbies, recreational reading, TV watching, sightseeing, window shopping, and seeking out the latest electronic gadgets or luxuries. Social networking, texting, circulating s, and frequently checking the latest news and sports events can also waste our time and can even become an obsession. (Eccl. 3:1, 6) If we do not limit the amount of time we spend on nonessential things, we may find ourselves neglecting the most important activity of all our worship of Jehovah. Read Ephesians 5: *** w15 10/15 pp par. 14 Keep Meditating on Spiritual Things *** 14 Therefore, let us continue to ponder over God s Word. This will motivate us to reflect Jehovah s glory, qualities, and personality as revealed in the Bible. (2 Cor. 3:18) What more could we ask for? Growing in the knowledge of God and being allowed to reflect his glory are wonderful privileges, a never-ending process as we continue to learn how to imitate our loving heavenly Father. Eccl. 3:11.

7 *** w14 5/1 p. 7 Can Anyone See the Future? *** What God Has Revealed About the Future Contrary to what doomsday prophets say, God assures us that our planet Earth will never be destroyed. Psalm 104:5; Ecclesiastes 1:4. *** w13 1/15 p. 14 par. 11 Let Nothing Distance You From Jehovah *** The Bible even says that there is a time to laugh and a time to skip about, and it encourages a healthy amount of rest. (Eccl. 3:4; 4:6) If you are not careful, however, recreation and entertainment could distance you from Jehovah. How? Much of the danger centers on two aspects what type you choose and how much time you spend on it. *** w13 5/15 p. 7 par. 18 Fulfill Your Role as an Evangelizer *** 18 When you accompany another Christian in the ministry, how can you work as a team? (Read 1 Corinthians 3:6-9.) In your Bible, look up the scriptures that your partner is using. Keep your attention turned to your partner and to the householder when either of them is talking. Follow the discussion closely in case there is a need for you to assist your partner to overcome an objection. (Eccl. 4:12) A word of caution, though: Resist the urge to interrupt your partner when he or she is using an effective line of reasoning. Your unrestrained enthusiasm might discourage your partner and confuse the householder. At times, it may be appropriate to join in the discussion. But if you choose to say something, limit yourself to a brief comment or two. Then allow your partner to resume the lead. *** w12 3/15 p. 12 par. 12 Help People to Awake From Sleep *** 12 An alert observer tries to avoid distractions. While in the ministry, conversation with our partner can be upbuilding. Still, we want to remember that our purpose in engaging in the field ministry is to preach to others. (Eccl. 3:1, 7) So we should be careful that our conversation between doors does not interfere with our ministry. Discussing thoughts that we would like to share with interested ones is a good way to keep our minds focused on our objective. Also, although a cell phone may sometimes help us to be effective in our ministry, we should take steps to be sure that a phone call will not disrupt our conversation with a householder. *** w12 10/1 p. 16 Can You Live Forever? *** 1. Why does our life seem short? Some tortoises live for 150 years, and some trees for 3,000 years. By contrast, the human life span is much shorter. Yet, our life can be a lot more meaningful than that of a tortoise or a tree. Jehovah God created humans with the capacity to enjoy music, sports, dining, learning, traveling, and meeting people. God put in our hearts the desire for life without end. Read Ecclesiastes 3:11.

8 *** w12 11/1 p. 16 Will God Provide a World Government? *** 1. Why does mankind need a world government? Today, mankind s problems are often on a worldwide scale. In some nations, most people are poor and oppressed. In others, many people seem to have more than they need. Only a global administration could distribute the earth s resources fairly. Read Ecclesiastes 4:1; 8:9. *** w12 11/15 p. 4 par. 5 Teach Me to Do Your Will *** 5 Are you proud to have Jehovah as your God? (Jer. 9:24) How do you react when neighbors, colleagues, classmates, or relatives speak ill of Jehovah and make fun of his Witnesses? Do you speak up when Jehovah s name is being reproached, trusting in his support? True, there is a time to keep quiet, but we must not be ashamed of being Witnesses of Jehovah and followers of Jesus. (Eccl. 3:1, 7; Mark 8:38) *** w11 6/1 p. 16 Is There Hope for the Dead? *** 2. What is the condition of the dead? Although a force of life, or spirit, keeps humans and animals alive, we are not spirits that merely inhabit a body of flesh. (Ecclesiastes 3:19; Genesis 7:21, 22) We are physical creatures made out of dust. (Genesis 2:7; 3:19) When our brain dies, our thoughts perish. Thus, after being resurrected, Lazarus said nothing of his experience in death because the dead are unconscious. Read Psalm 146:4; Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10. *** w11 7/1 p. 4 Why Does Life Seem Meaningless? *** WHY should you believe that life will ever be more than just a brief span of empty existence through which we pass like a shadow, as King Solomon put it? (Ecclesiastes 6:12, The New English Bible) God s inspired Word, the Bible an unfailingly dependable source of information promises that life in the future will be truly meaningful. 2 Timothy 3:16, 17. *** w11 12/1 p. 8 No More Disasters! *** If humans cannot control natural disasters, who can? The Bible identifies our Creator as the one to make this change. He is the One who put the earth s ecological systems, such as the water cycle, in place. (Ecclesiastes 1:7) And in sharp contrast with humans, God has unlimited power at his disposal. *** w11 12/1 p. 10 Will the Earth Survive 2012? *** Despite predictions from calamity-howling religious leaders, pseudoscientists, and any other 21st-century prognosticators, earth will be in existence for a very long time. Yes, the earth will survive As a matter of fact, planet Earth will survive not only that year but also every year thereafter. The Bible tells us: Generations come and generations go, while the earth endures for ever. (Ecclesiastes 1:4, The New English Bible)

9 *** w10 1/1 p. 22 Will the Earth Come to an End? *** The Bible assures us: Generations come and generations go, but the earth remains forever. (Ecclesiastes 1:4, New International Version) Jehovah God securely founded the earth upon its established places and designed it to last to time indefinite, or forever. (Psalm 104:5) Do these inspired words of God sound too good to be true? Why should you believe that our earth will not expire, when some scientists claim otherwise? Well, think for a moment about products on the shelf at a store. Some are labeled with an expiration date. Who set that date? Was it just an educated guess by the store manager? Of course not! The manufacturer determined the expiration date. We trust that date because the manufacturer knows his products better than anyone else. How much more so should we trust the Maker of our planet! His Word clearly states that he solidly fixed the earth to last forever. There is no expiration date ever! Psalm 119:90.