A Time For Everything Under The Sun (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)
Paul MacDonald RN MA Dipl
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
https://www.chabad.org/library/bible_cdo/aid/16464/jewish/Chapter-3.htm
In this passage, the Preacher (Solomon), he says that there is a time for every matter in life. He illustrates this truth by juxtaposing opposites: fourteen pairs of contrasting activities as examples of how life is comprised of various seasons. A straightforward reading of the passage reveals several concepts.
First, the timing of our activities is important. Killing (Ecclesiastes 3:8) is generally considered evil and a crime, but with regards to self defence, God does not forbid this, and there may come a time when one will have to do this.
The Law On Theft (Exodus 22:2-3)
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Dancing (verse 4) may be appropriate during a time of celebration, but it would highly inappropriate for a funeral. All of our actions, and the timing of our actions are important to God.
Second, these seasons in which there will be certain pursuits, they are proper are all appointed by God. For example the setting up of Kings and Kingdoms, and then taking them down
God Sets Up Kings and Brings Them Down (Daniel 2:21-23)
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Two Have Been, One Still Is, Another Is Yet To Come
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So, as you can see, construction is good in its own time, but sometimes deconstruction is also necessary (verse 3), like setting up of Kings and Kingdoms, God can also punish nations by sending wild beasts (Evil Men) through them to punish and depopulate them Ezekiel 14:15)
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A key passage here is found a few verses later: “He (God) has made everything beautiful in its time” (Ecclesiastes 3:11). The proper activity at the right time, bringing about God’s purposes, is a beautiful part of God’s overall plan. A tapestry, viewed from the back, seems a chaotic and unlovely work; but the maker of the tapestry has a wise purpose for the placement of each thread.
Third, Ecclesiastes 3:1–8 serves as a bridge between the first two chapters and the section that follows. People are to accept each day as a gift from the hand of God (2:24–26). Why? Ecclesiastes 3:1–8 explains it is because God has a reason and a time for all things. People may be ignorant of God’s timing (3:9–11), but they are called to enjoy life in the present (3:12–13) and trust in God’s Sovereignty (3:14–15).
God offers much wisdom in the saying, “There is a time for everything, / and a season for every activity under the heavens.” God is sovereign. Our activity in this world is meaningful as we rely on His wisdom, His timing, and His goodness.
Remember, activities are all for a season only, even our own short lives and time here on earth.
Paul MacDonald RN MA Dipl ©
