The Bible's Chief Message (Man's Chief End) [Family Worship lesson in Ecclesiastes 12:8–14]

What is the chief end of man? Ecclesiastes 12:8–14 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that man’s chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional draws together the profound truth of Ecclesiastes, revealing that life under the sun is fleeting and transient—like vapor—yet not meaningless, because its true substance lies in one's relationship with God. Far from advocating despair, it calls believers to live with eternal perspective, grounded in the fear of God and obedience to His commandments, which constitute humanity's ultimate purpose. The Word of God is both a goad, to awaken and redirect the soul, and a well-driven nail to anchor life amid life’s storms, offering enduring stability and truth. Scripture, as the inspired, unified message of one Shepherd, is the sole authority for faith and practice. Ultimately, the conclusion is both a call to joyful reverence and righteous living, inviting believers to find lasting joy in God and to live with the certainty of future judgment and eternal glory.

2026.02.26 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 12:8–14

Read Ecclesiastes 12:8–14

Questions from the Scripture text: How does Ecclesiastes 12:8 summarize the preacher’s (assembler’s) conclusion about the length and significance of life in this world, on its own terms? What had the concluding teaching been, rather than to live life on its own terms (cf. Ecclesiastes 11:10–12:1)? So, what did the preacher still do to the people (Ecclesiastes 12:9)? And what did he seek out and set in order? What sorts of words, specifically (Ecclesiastes 12:10)? What two things does verse 10 say about the words that were written? What are the words of the wise like (Ecclesiastes 12:11)? What are the words of masters-of-collections like? By Whom are these goads and well-driven nails given? To whom is Ecclesiastes 12:12 addressed? What does the preacher tell him to do with those words? What does he say about other books and other study, by comparison? What is the concluding command (Ecclesiastes 12:13)? As what, must he do those two things? What truth/reality drives home that this must be how we live?

What is the chief end of man? Ecclesiastes 12:8–14 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that man’s chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever. 

Here, we come to the conclusion of the whole book, indeed the conclusion of all of life. In and of itself, our life in this world—indeed the life of this entire world—is a vapor of vapors (Ecclesiastes 12:8). The most fleeting blink of a moment.

So what do we do? That’s what the project of Ecclesiastes (and Proverbs) has been all about. Solomon, by the Holy Spirit, has been writing as the caller of assemblies (NKJ “Preacher,” Ecclesiastes 12:9). The fleeting nature of life in this world makes it all the more crucial that people learn to fear God, and what that looks like in the details of life. 

The main thing is to rejoice and live righteously, as we have already seen (cf. Ecclesiastes 11:7–10), and this is the book of Ecclesiastes. More details are fleshed out in the book of Proverbs. 

Together, Ecclesiastes and Proverbs are the “many proverbs” (Ecclesiastes 12:9) and “delightful/pleasant words” (Ecclesiastes 12:10, more literally). These are the righteous and true words that we have in these two books of Scripture. In Ecclesiastes 12:11, the word “wise” is plural, indicating that Solomon understands that he is writing as just one of many, who give the words of the “one Shepherd.” Here is a biblical doctrine of Scripture: one Shepherd, using many wise men (carried along by the Holy Spirit) to set down the very words of God!

What do these words do? They move and stabilize. Goads move us to do what God says when we are stationary, or back into God’s path, when we are wayward. The well-driven nail, stabilizes the tent against the storm, and this is the other way that the Scriptures help us: giving the stability, strength, gladness, purpose, in God Himself. God uses the Bible to move the believer and to establish the believer.

This is why the Bible is the single book for your admonishment (Ecclesiastes 12:12a). Men will pile up other books, and men will wear themselves out trying to know more (verse 12b), but God has made full provision for our instruction and warning in the Bible. Just as no other words are on par of it (the words of the one Shepherd), so also no other words are to be added it as a rule of faith (nails) and practice (goads). 

So, what does the Bible teach? Fear God (nails), and keep His commandments (goads), “for this is the mannishness of man” (Ecclesiastes 12:13, more literally). And, what man gets out of being a proper man is God Himself! Being a true man begins by being not-God, by fearing God alone as God. A true man images God, worships God, obeys God, enjoys God. This is the mannishness of man.

The truth, and certain expectation, of God’s judgment (Ecclesiastes 12:14) is a gift from Him to drive us back to our chief end. The fact that we are sure to appear before the judgment seat of Christ (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:10), together with the fleetingness of this life and this world, drives us to this one great aim: to be well pleasing to Him, so long as we are present in the body (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:9), while we look forward to this mortality being swallowed up in the life and pleasure of enjoying Him forever (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:1–8). 

Why is the only chief end that makes sense, the chief end of glorifying God and enjoying God? Who can teach you how to glorify and enjoy Him? What has He given us, by which He teaches us to glorify and enjoy Him? What use are you making of what He has given us? And how is this helping you live life in this world, like someone who expects to enjoy God forever in the next world? What sort of life does this give you to live now?

Sample prayer:  Lord, we thank You for the Bible. Please forgive us for when Your words would have goaded us into action, but we have not moved. Forgive us for when Your words would have goaded us back into Your own paths for us, but we have continued in our incorrect ways. Forgive us for when Your words would have stabilized us in You as our great purpose, but we have lived as if we had other, competing purposes. Forgive us for when Your words would have stabilized us in You as our great pleasure, but we have lived as if we had other, competing pleasures. Grant that Your Spirit would use Your Word to remind us that we are coming to the judgment, so that we will live always by Your Word, we ask in Christ’s Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP45B “Daughter, Incline Your Ear” or TPH116A “I Love the LORD, for He Has Heard My Voice” 

Breaking Down of a Brief Life [Family Worship lesson in Ecclesiastes 12:1–7]

What must we do, since our abilities and capacities are destined to fail? Ecclesiastes 12:1–7 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must live unto our Creator, right now. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The passage from Ecclesiastes 12 calls believers to remember their Creator throughout life, especially in youth, as a response to the inevitable reality of aging and death. Through vivid imagery of physical decline—failing strength, dimming sight, loss of teeth, diminished hearing, and frailty—it underscores the fleeting nature of earthly life and the body’s return to dust. The text emphasizes that these signs of decay are not merely biological but spiritual reminders to live with joyful reverence and righteous obedience to God, Who is the source of life and the destination of the soul. Rather than viewing old age as a time of despair, the passage invites the believer to find enduring joy and purpose in God, even as physical abilities wane, because the spirit returns to Him who gave it. Ultimately, the call is to cultivate a life of continual remembrance, so that one may rejoice and remain righteous not only in this life, but eternally, in God’s presence.

2026.02.19 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 12:1–7

Read Ecclesiastes 12:1–7

Questions from the Scripture text: Whom are we to remember (Ecclesiastes 12:1a)? When (verse 1a–c)? Otherwise, what will happen (verse 1d)? What will eventually be darkened for us (Ecclesiastes 12:2a–c)? What will not return (verse 2d)? What will tremble (Ecclesiastes 12:3a)? And what bow down (verse 3b)? What will cease (verse 3c)? Why? What will grow dim (verse 3d)? What will be shut (Ecclesiastes 12:4a)? What will be low (verse 4b)? What will cause one to rise (verse 4c)? What else will be brought low (verse 4d)? Of what will they fear (Ecclesiastes 12:5a–b)? What will blossom (verse 5c)? What will be a burden (verse 5d)? What will fail (verse 5e)? Where will man go (verse 5f)? Who will go about the streets (verse 5g)? What will be loosed (Ecclesiastes 12:6a)? What will be broken (verse 6b)? What will be shattered where (verse 6c)? And what broken where (verse 6d)? What will return to the earth (Ecclesiastes 12:7a)? To where will the spirit return (verse 7b)?

What must we do, since our abilities and capacities are destined to fail? Ecclesiastes 12:1–7 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must live unto our Creator, right now. 

Remember your Creator: act decisively in response to Who He is to you, and what He has done for you. He has made you, and you must serve Him with your abilities and capacities, while you still have them. Toward the sunset of life, the darkness begins creeping in (Ecclesiastes 12:2). The shaking of arms and hands begins (Ecclesiastes 12:3a), and the legs and back fail and bend (verse 3b). The teeth break down, so that chewing is difficult (verse 3c), and eyesight begins to fail (verse 3d). The lips fall in for lack of teeth (Ecclesiastes 12:4a), and only soft foods are eaten (verse 4b). The first little noise wakes you up (verse 4c), and the ability to make or enjoy music fades (verse 4d). Heights and journeys that would not have been challenging are now frightening (Ecclesiastes 12:5a–b), the hair turns white (verse 5c), and walking looks like the syncopated dragging of a grasshopper (verse 5d). 

Ecclesiastes 12:5f–g sum up what is happening: the man is going to his eternal home, his body resting in the grave (Ecclesiastes 12:7a), and his spirit returning to the Lord (verse 7b, cf. Ecclesiastes 3:21). So, silvery spinal fluid ceases to flow (Ecclesiastes 12:6a), the brain ceases to operate (verse 6b), as does the pumping spring of the heart (verse 6c), and the water wheel of the circulatory system (verse 6d).

With what capacities/abilities do you need to be enjoying the Lord more? Serving the Lord more?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for how we have wasted so much of our lives, as if we would have our abilities and capacities forever. We have not remembered You in the days of our youth. By failing to take our pleasure in You, we have set us up for days when we will have no pleasure at all. So, forgive us, and grant that we would rejoice in You and serve You, now and forever, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP45B “Daughter, Incline Your Ear” or TPH116A “I Love the LORD, for He Has Heard My Voice” 

How to Live Your Blink of a Life [Family Worship lesson in Ecclesiastes 11:7–10]

How should we live our short lives? Ecclesiastes 11:7–10 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should spend our short lives in rejoicing and righteousness. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: Ecclesiastes 11:7–10 presents a profound balance between joyful gratitude and sober responsibility, calling believers to embrace life’s fleeting beauty as a divine gift, while living with constant awareness of God’s coming judgment. The passage affirms that life—especially youth—is brief and transient, likened to a vapor, yet within that brevity lies the sacred duty to rejoice in God’s good gifts, from the sun’s light to daily blessings, recognizing them as expressions of His generosity. At the same time, the passage issues a solemn call to righteousness: to walk according to one’s heart and eyes, but only under the conviction that all actions will be judged by God, demanding the removal both of sorrow and of evil from one’s life. This dual command—rejoice and live righteously—forms the heart of godly wisdom, urging both children and adults to live with joyful obedience, knowing that true fulfillment comes not in self-indulgence but in God Himself. The urgency of youth’s brevity is not a reason for despair, but a lesson in the brevity of life as a whole, teaching us to steward each moment with purpose, humility, and faith in Christ.

2026.02.12 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 11:7–10

Read Ecclesiastes 11:7–10

Questions from the Scripture text: What is sweet (Ecclesiastes 11:7a)? What is pleasant (verse 7b)? What might a man do (Ecclesiastes 11:8a)? With what effect upon him (verse 8b)? But what days should he remember (verse 8c)? How many will they be (verse 8d)? What is all that comes to him (i.e., in this life, verse 8e)? What should a young man do (Ecclesiastes 11:9a)? In what? What should his heart do (verse 9b)? When? What may his heart do (verse 9c)? What may his eyes do (verse 9d)? But what will the Lord do (verse 9f)? And what is the young man responsible to do (verse 9e)? Therefore, what should the young man do with his heart (Ecclesiastes 11:10a)? And with his physical body (verse 10b)? Why—what is true about his younger years (verse 10c)?

How should we live our short lives? Ecclesiastes 11:7–10 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should spend our short lives in rejoicing and righteousness. 

This life is so short. We might say, “like a blink.” Ecclesiastes says, “like a vapor.” And there’s a microcosm of that in our childhoods. When they are over, your younger years are a vapor, a blink. So will it be with this entire life, when it is over.

So, there are two great lessons about life as a whole, that we can learn from applying them to our youth. 

First, enjoy life while you have it: let light and sunshine be sweet to you (Ecclesiastes 11:7), enjoy each and every year that you are given (Ecclesiastes 11:8a–b), just as the young should enjoy their childhood (Ecclesiastes 11:9a–b). So the first application is “rejoicing.” 

But the second application is “righteousness.” And the second is “righteousness.” Remember how much longer your life after this world will be, than your life in it. Everything in this life is “vapor” (more literal than NKJ, “vanity,” in Ecclesiastes 11:8e), by comparison to eternity. Ecclesiastes 11:9e–f is even more pointed: live in the knowledge that your life must pass muster at God’s judgment. 

This requires regeneration, conversion. For if one is going to walk in the ways of his heart (Ecclesiastes 11:9c), and his eyes (verse 9d), but in a way that acknowledges God and His judgment (verse 9e–f), then it is obvious that he needs a new heart and new eyes!

Lets we had somehow missed the great lesson in Ecclesiastes 11:7-9 (indeed, in the whole book thus far), Ecclesiastes 11:10 winds it up very plainly and bluntly to the young: rejoice (verse 10a), and be righteous (verse 10b), because childhood and youth are a vapor (verse 10c). 

And, in a book in which the Spirit has repeatedly called our whole life under the sun a vapor, it is plain that this applies to the whole of our blink-long life under the sun: rejoice, and be righteous, because life is a vapor!

The key to both of those will come in the next passage: remember your Creator. Remembering Him is the key to rejoicing. And remembering Him is the key to living righteously. 

So, dear reader, rejoice! And be righteous! For life is a vapor.

In what phase of life are you, right now? Can you look back on a childhood that now seems like it was a vapor? Are you currently in a childhood that you need to remember is a vapor? How aware are you, in your functional, everyday living, that our entire life in this world is a vapor? How are you “remembering your Creator” in service of extracting as much joy as you can out of every moment of this blink-long life? How are you “remembering your Creator” in service of living as you will wish you had, when you enter the incomprehensibly long eternity?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for how we have wasted so much of our lives, by permitting anxiety or sadness to dominate our hearts. And, forgive us for how, in so many moments of our lives, we have not lived as we will wish we had, when we enter eternity. We thank You for Christ, Who is the most joyful Man, and Who has always made the most of the time. For His sake, forgive us. And by His life, make us to be like Him, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside” or TPH400 “Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me”

Delighted, Dependent Diligence [Family Worship lesson in Ecclesiastes 11:1–6]

What should we do? Ecclesiastes 11:1–6 prepares us for the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, since we cannot comprehend all of the work of God, we should be diligent and active, entrusting the outcome to Him. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: Drawing from Ecclesiastes 11:1–6, the devotional presents a call to faithful, joyful diligence in all aspects of life, grounded in the recognition that God’s purposes are beyond human comprehension. It emphasizes that, just as the wind and the growth of a child in the womb are mysteries beyond our control, so too are the outcomes of our labor and generosity. Therefore, believers are urged to act with wisdom and generosity—sowing seed in the morning and not withholding effort in the evening—without waiting for perfect conditions or guaranteed results. The passage teaches that true faithfulness lies not in understanding or controlling outcomes, but in trusting God’s sovereign work, even when the results are uncertain. Ultimately, the devotional calls for a life of consistent, humble diligence, rooted in the assurance that God is working all things according to His will, and that our faithful labor, though unseen, is part of His greater design.

2026.02.05 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 11:1–6

Read Ecclesiastes 11:1–6

Questions from the Scripture text: What does Ecclesiastes 11:1a say to do? Then, what will happen, when (verse 1b)? What does Ecclesiastes 11:2a say to do? Why (verse 2b)? What promising circumstance is in Ecclesiastes 11:3a? Then, what will happen (verse 3b)? What happens in verse 3c? Then, what happens (verse 3d)? What is the man in Ecclesiastes 11:4a doing? What won’t he do, then? What is the man in verse 4b doing? What won’t he do, then? What don’t we know (Ecclesiastes 11:5a)? What else don’t we know (verse 5b)? What should this humble us into admitting we cannot know (verse 5c)? What should one do in the morning (Ecclesiastes 11:6a)? When else might he have opportunity to do so (verse 6b)? Which one does he know will work (verse 6c–d)? What might even happen (verse 6e)?

What should we do? Ecclesiastes 11:1–6 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, since we cannot comprehend all of the work of God, we should be diligent and active, entrusting the outcome to Him. 

First, be diligent in commerce. Casting the bread “on the waters” (Ecclesiastes 11:1) likely refers to shipping. Work to ensure your future by being diligent in commerce, even if you don’t immediately see the desired returns.

Second, be diligent in generosity. Since seven is a number of completeness, eight (Ecclesiastes 11:2a) means “be generous to whom providence brings you, and then some.” If everyone does this, there will be a neighborly charity that mitigates unexpected famine. There is also an implication here that you don’t know when you will be the one in need, so generosity now may prepare you to be an object of generosity later (cf. Luke 16:8–9). 

Third, be diligent in your labor, even if you aren’t guaranteed to be the beneficiary of your outcome. Clouds empty themselves indiscriminately (Ecclesiastes 11:3a–b). A tree might fall into your neighbor’s land, or into yours, and that providence will decide who gets the wood (verse 3c–d). 

Fourth, be diligent, even when the circumstances do not appear to be optimal. The man in the two illustrations in Ecclesiastes 11:4 is relying upon what he observes. But the believer doesn’t need to observe optimal circumstances, because the same Lord upon Whom He depends for the outcome is the Lord Who governs the circumstances. It’s always the optimal time to trust God and be diligent. 

Fifth, be diligent, even if you don’t understand how it will fit into God’s plan. You depend upon the wind, though you don’t know how to generate it (Ecclesiastes 11:5a). Your bones formed in your mothers womb, without you understanding how (verse 5b). So, participate in the plans of the only uncreated Creator, Who sovereignly works all things (verse 5c, cf. Ephesians 1:11), even though you don’t understand the part that your efforts will have in His plan. 

Sixth, be diligent at all times, even though you don’t know if it will bear fruit at all (Ecclesiastes 11:6a–c). Something will be fruitful (verse 6d), maybe everything (verse 6e). But again, that is in the Lord’s hands, the safest place for it to be.

When do you find yourself struggling with lack of diligence? Of the six obstacles to diligence above, which are the most challenging for you? What truths about God, and about Christ, will be helpful against these obstacles?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for when we have tried to guess what You are doing, or have talked ourselves into laziness, by the idea that we could control the outcomes of our efforts. Thank you for Christ’s diligence, which is counted for us. By His blood, cleans us from our sin. And by His resurrection, make us to walk in newness of life, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside” or TPH400 “Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me”

The Harm of Fools in Authority [Family Worship lesson in Ecclesiastes 10:16–20]

What is as harmful as foolish counsel? Ecclesiastes 10:16–20 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that foolish governance is as harmful as foolish counsel. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional centers on the responsibility and moral accountability of leadership, drawing from Ecclesiastes 10:16–20 to contrast wise governance—marked by disciplined feasting and diligent stewardship—with the folly of self-indulgent rulers who prioritize pleasure over purpose. The passage warns against the dangers of internal rebellion against foolish authority, even in thought, reminding believers that all authority is ultimately under God’s sovereign oversight, and that disrespect—even in the heart—violates divine order. Ultimately, the message calls for humility, prayerful dependence on Christ, and a life marked by faithful stewardship and godly respect, even in the face of flawed leadership.

2026.01.29 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 10:16–20

Read Ecclesiastes 10:16–20

Questions from the Scripture text: What is woeful for a land (Ecclesiastes 10:16)? What opposite condition is blessed (Ecclesiastes 10:17)? What are the effects of laziness and idleness (Ecclesiastes 10:18)? What do such a people prioritize (Ecclesiastes 10:19)? What must the wise do, even in such a case (Ecclesiastes 10:20)?

What is as harmful as foolish counsel? Ecclesiastes 10:16–20 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that foolish governance is as harmful as foolish counsel. 

It is woeful to have fools for your counselors (Ecclesiastes 10:11-15), and woeful to a land to have fools for its nobility (Ecclesiastes 10:16). Kings and princes should understand the proper timing of things (Ecclesiastes 10:17b), and the proper usefulness of things (verse 17c). The laziness and idleness of Ecclesiastes 10:18 refer to the one who neglects service on account of self-indulgence. They live, instead, to have fun (Ecclesiastes 10:19a), indulge themselves (verse 19b), and obtain things (verse 19c). Where those in government are like this, a land is miserable rather than blessed, destroyed rather than built (Ecclesiastes 10:18). But let the wise not curse their “nobility.” In the curious turns of God’s providence (Ecclesiastes 10:20c–d), we cannot expect blessing to come by breaking His law. We must entrust ourselves and our blessedness to Him.

Whom do you govern? Are you blessing or cursing them? Who governs you? How are you responding to them?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for how we have lived to have fun, to indulge ourselves, and to obtain things. We have harmed those whom we have governed. And forgive us, for when our thoughts have cursed those whom You have set over us. Christ has been perfectly diligent and wise for us. Forgive us by His cross, and sanctify us by His Spirit, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside” or TPH400 “Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me”  

Watch Out for Babbling Fools [Family Worship lesson in Ecclesiastes 10:11–15]

What is dangerous, like an angry king? Ecclesiastes 10:11–15 prepares us for the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that a talking fool is dangerous, like an angry king. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) This passage presents a sobering portrait of the fool as a dangerous and self-destructive figure whose speech leads inevitably to ruin, likened to a venomous serpent that strikes when uncharmed, requiring expert handling. The fool’s words, marked by endless babbling and reckless prognostication, begin in folly and end in madness, ultimately entombing both himself and those who follow him. The passage calls believers to discernment, urging them to recognize the marks of folly—excessive speech and false predictions.

2026.01.22 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 10:11–15

Read Ecclesiastes 10:11–15

Questions from the Scripture text: When does the serpent bite (Ecclesiastes 10:11a)? Who else requires great wisdom to negate his harmful effects (verse 11b)? What do the words of a wise man give (Ecclesiastes 10:12a)? What do the lips of a fool do (verse 12b)? How do his words begin (Ecclesiastes 10:13a)? How does his talk end (verse 13b)? What does a fool do with his words (Ecclesiastes 10:14a)? What does a man not know (verse 14b)? What can’t he do with the future (verse 14c)? What does all of the fool’s effort accomplish (Ecclesiastes 10:15a)? What is an example of something obvious that they can’t accomplish (verse 15b)? 

What is dangerous, like an angry king? Ecclesiastes 10:11–15 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that a talking fool is dangerous, like an angry king. 

Sandwiched in between sections detailing the wise man’s response to foolish kingship is this section, warning the wise about the difficulty presented by the fool and his speech. Ecclesiastes 10:11 puts the babbler on the level of the serpent; great skill is needed, and diligence required, to keep him from doing harm. The wise man seeks to always give grace with his words (Ecclesiastes 10:12a, cf. Colossians 4:6). The fool harms not just others but himself—the image in Ecclesiastes 10:12b would be humorous, if it wasn’t so tragic: his lips open wider and wider, until they become his own tomb. He is unaware that his speech is insane from start to finish (Ecclesiastes 10:13), and one big problem is that he never seems to finish (Ecclesiastes 10:14a). He continually speaks of what he doesn’t know—even the future (verse 14b). And this makes him exhausting (Ecclesiastes 10:15a), because he really doesn’t know anything (not even how to get from his own home to the city, verse 15b). Steer clear of fools and their talk!

How careful/intentional are you to steer clear of those who multiply words about foolishly? When might that be you?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for misusing and multiplying words. When we should have been giving grace, we swallowed ourselves up instead. And, forgive us for failing to heed Your warnings about other fools, who multiply harmfully ignorant words, as if they knew so much. Forgive us, and help us, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside” or TPH400 “Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me”

Trust Only in God But Live Wisely [Family Worship lesson in Ecclesiastes 10:8–10]

What is the use of wisdom? Ecclesiastes 10:8–10 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that wisdom doesn’t guarantee desired outcomes, but rather serves God well, as it submits to His providence. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) The devotional explores the tension between human effort and divine providence, emphasizing that neither righteousness nor wisdom guarantees the outcomes we seek. It illustrates how God’s sovereignty often thwarts sinful intentions—such as a man falling into the pit he digs—while also allowing hardships to afflict even the innocent, like those quarrying stones or splitting wood. Yet, amid this uncertainty, the preacher affirms that wisdom is not futile; rather, it is useful, as a sharpened axe requires less strength and reduces danger, reflecting the value of preparation and prudence. The faithful response is not passive resignation but a balanced trust in God’s providence coupled with diligent, thoughtful living. Ultimately, believers are called to honor God in both their dependence on Him and their responsible stewardship of wisdom, knowing that true success lies not in achievement but in sovereign providence.

2026.01.15 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 10:8–10

Read Ecclesiastes 10:8–10

Questions from the Scripture text: What happens to the man who digs a pit in Ecclesiastes 10:8a? And what happens to the man who breaks through a wall in verse 8b? What happens to the one who quarries stones in Ecclesiastes 10:9a? And to the one who splits the wood in verse 9b? Especially if what is true of the ax (Ecclesiastes 10:10a–b)? Why (verse 10c)? So, what must one have (verse 10d)?

What is the use of wisdom? Ecclesiastes 10:8–10 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that wisdom doesn’t guarantee desired outcomes, but rather serves God well, as it submits to His providence. 

It is not only the conduct of kings that leads to results that are opposite what we intended (Ecclesiastes 10:5-7). In God’s wise, but inscrutable, providence, this happens both to those with evil intentions (Ecclesiastes 10:8) and those who are engaged in ordinary life (Ecclesiastes 10:9-10). Ecclesiastes 10:8a has its parallel in Psalm 7:15. Both this pit-digger, and the wall/hedge breacher, cannot escape the judgment that providence brings upon them. But, the stone quarrier and the wood splitter, who are engaged in ordinary labor, experience similar earthly results. Ecclesiastes 10:10, in comparison to Ecclesiastes 10:8-9, teaches something similar to Ecclesiastes 9:13–18 in comparison to Ecclesiastes 9:11–12. Though God’s providence is sovereign and unpredictable, wisdom is still valuable, under that providence—even such simple wisdom as to use a sharpened ax rather than dull one. Believers must do both: employ wisdom under God’s instruction and service, while trusting and submitting to God’s providence.

What difficult situations are you in? What wisdom should you be exercising in it? To Whom must you trust the result?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for trying to control or produce the outcomes that we want. Grant unto us cheerful submission to Your providence, as we exercise wisdom in Your service, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP1 “How Blessed the Man” or TPH131B “Not Haughty Is My Heart”

Wisdom Under Rulers Under the Sun [Family Worship lesson in Ecclesiastes 10:4–7]

What should we do when rulers rise against us? Ecclesiastes 10:4–7 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should be faithful and gentle, not hoping in the ruler’s response, but in the living God. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) The devotional calls believers to exercise wisdom and faithfulness in the face of unjust or hostile authority, emphasizing that remaining steadfast in one’s post—even when the ruler’s spirit rises against them—is a mark of godly discernment. While conciliation can pacify great offenses and sometimes lead to restored relationships, the preacher warns that earthly outcomes are not guaranteed, as wisdom is often not rewarded in this life. The book of Ecclesiastes exposes the reality that folly is frequently exalted while the wise and faithful are humbled, reflecting the brokenness of life under the sun. Yet Christians are called not to seek immediate vindication, but to live wisely for God’s glory, trusting in His ultimate justice and finding opportunity to reflect Christ’s character in suffering. This faithful endurance, especially under unjust treatment, becomes a powerful testimony of the gospel, as believers embody the humility and trust of Christ, who entrusted Himself to the Father. Ultimately, the believer’s reward is not in earthly recognition, but in the sanctifying work of the Spirit and the eternal glory of Christ.

2026.01.08 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 10:4–7

Read Ecclesiastes 10:4–7

Questions from the Scripture text: What may rise against you (Ecclesiastes 10:4a)? What mustn’t you the do (verse 4b)? What does a gentle response do (verse 4c)? What has the preacher seen (Ecclesiastes 10:5a)? Where? What sort of evil is it (verse 5b)? From where does it proceed? What is set where (Ecclesiastes 10:6a)? How is this illustrated (Ecclesiastes 10:7a)? And who sit where (Ecclesiastes 10:6b)? How is this illustrated?

What should we do when rulers rise against us? Ecclesiastes 10:4–7 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should be faithful and gentle, not hoping in the ruler’s response, but in the living God. 

Just as wisdom often goes forgotten in this world, so also it is not always sufficiently rewarded in this world. Solomon proceeds to give an example of this. He gives us wise instruction in Ecclesiastes 10:4: respond to a ruler’s wrath (verse 4a) with faithfulness (verse 4b) and gentleness (verse 4c). Generally speaking, this will cause peace/rest to a contentious situation.

But rulers are a special case. Under the sun, there is something about a man feeling as if he is in ultimate authority that results in evil error (Ecclesiastes 10:5). Rather than give places of honor to those to whom it belongs (Ecclesiastes 10:6b, Ecclesiastes 10:7b), the man who feels his power is absolute is prone to elevating fools instead (Ecclesiastes 10:6a, Ecclesiastes 10:7a).

This helps us to remember that we exercise our wisdom not primarily to obtain our desired outcome (conciliation and elevation that never come), but to honor Him Who is above the sun, and Whose judgment sets all things right. He will not commit error, or do us ill; and, even when rulers are doing so, God is still working all things according to the counsel of His will. So, we exercise wisdom as those who are managing our expectations in the short term, but looking forward, with happy longing, to the perfect reign of Christ.

What are you trying to do or gain by exercising wisdom? Unto Whom are you offering it? Why must you be prepared for affliction, instead, in the short-term? On what basis can you expect perfect blessedness in the long term?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for when we are unsubmissive, unfaithful, and contentious in response to rulers whose spirits rise against us. Grant that we would be faithful and gentle, trusting You as Christ did. Count Him as our righteousness, we pray, and make us to be like Him, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP1 “How Blessed the Man” or TPH131B “Not Haughty Is My Heart” 

2026.01.01 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 10:1–3

Read Ecclesiastes 10:1–3

Questions from the Scripture text: About what does v1a begin speaking? What do these dead flies do? Even to what? What does the perfumer’s ointment then give off (v1b)? What is analogous to these dead flies (v1c)? Where is the wise man’s heart (v2a)? Where is the fool’s heart (v2b)? Where might a fool walk (v3a)? What does he still lack (v3b)? What does he show (v3c)? To whom?

What can stink up our name? Ecclesiastes 10:1–3 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that just a little bit of folly stinks up our name, and the Lord’s Name that He has put upon us. 

The preacher has already commended to us a good name as being better than precious ointment (7:1a). Now, he brings the caution that “one sinner destroys much good” (9:18a) into the realm of what we do with our reputations.

No “breaks” from wisdom. Just as one sinner destroys much good, a little folly (v1c) is like a “fly of death” that turns a good name rotten. If a man wishes to be honorable, he cannot afford to take a single moment “off” from being wise. One glaring moment of folly, and all of your wisdom will be forgotten. Your name will become like  stench (v1b).

Keep your heart ready. Therefore, the wise man’s heart must be at his right hand (v2a). Always there to help you. Always there to defend you. The fool does not meditate on what is true, righteous, and wise. His heart is not kept ready-to-hand but rather at the left hand (v2b)—which implies a lack of preparedness, readiness, and use.

Remember what gets noticed and remembered. The great “drawback” to wisdom in 9:15–16 was that it is easily forgotten. The exact opposite is true of the fool’s folly. Everything he does keeps announcing to others that he is a fool. Even the way that he walks (both literally, and figuratively, v3a) displays that he is a fool (v3b). 

When are you tempted to “take a moment off” from being wise? By what means and habits will you combat this?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for how we have been careless with our honor by acting as if we could take a break from being wise. We have despised the good gift of Your Word and Spirit by living thoughtlessly. Often, the manner of our conduct has declared our folly, and besmirched Your Name, which You have put upon us. Please forgive us, for Christ’s sake, and make us to be like Him, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP1 “How Blessed the Man” or TPH131B “Not Haughty Is My Heart”

Our Most Important Ability [Family Worship lesson in Ecclesiastes 9:13–18]

What abilities should we be developing and using? Ecclesiastes 9:13–18 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that all of our abilities are a stewardship from God, but the most important of these is wisdom. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: the devotional presents the supremacy of wisdom over strength, highlighting how divine wisdom—though often overlooked or forgotten—holds greater value than military might or worldly power. It illustrates this through the story of a poor, wise man who saves a city yet is ignored afterward, underscoring humanity’s tendency to despise quiet, humble wisdom while elevating the loud and foolish. Pastor emphasizes that true wisdom, rooted in the fear of the Lord and drawn from Scripture, is the highest of all God-given gifts and must be sought diligently in personal and corporate worship. It warns that even the most carefully built good can be undone by a single act of sin or folly, urging believers to value wise, gentle speech over boastful noise, and to live with humility, accountability, and reverence for God’s sovereign providence.

2025.12.25 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 9:13–18

Read Ecclesiastes 9:13–18

Questions from the Scripture text: What has Solomon seen, where (v13)? How did it seem to him? What had there been (v14)? Who came against it? in what way? But who was found in it (v15)? And what did he do, how? But what happened to him? What did this cause Solomon to say about wisdom (v16a–b)? But what still happens to a poor man’s wisdom (v16c–d)? What words, spoken in what manner, should be heard (v17a)? Instead of what (v17b)? What is better than what else (v18a)? But who does what in v18b?

What abilities should we be developing and using? Ecclesiastes 9:13–18 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that all of our abilities are a stewardship from God, but the most important of these is wisdom. 

v16b relates v13–18 back to v11c–d. We must diligently employ all that the Lord has given us (v10), without trusting in it (v11–12), but there is also a hierarchy among the abilities and capacities that God gives us.  “Wisdom is better than strength.”

Solomon illustrates this from his own experience (v13), telling about the wisdom of one wise man, that delivered a doomed city (v14–15), similar to how the wise woman delivered the city of Abel in 2Sam 20:16–22.

But we need passages like this one to remind us of the value of wisdom, because in our fallen world, people value riches and power more than wisdom. So, Solomon takes note (v16c) of how the wise man was forgotten because he was poor (v15c).

Just as we have learned recently about the weightiness of words, in the fact that God Himself has regard for the words of the poor (cf. Deu 24:13, 15), so now v17 urges us to pay attention to even the quiet words of the wise. Because the wise are modest, it will often be the case that their words are quiet, while the fool’s are loud (v17b). But we are to be more impressed with wisdom than with shouting, or earthly power, or even weapons of war (v18a).

Speed (v11b), strength (v11c), understanding (v11e), and skill (v11f) are gifts from God that must be stewarded and developed. But it is most important to develop wisdom. “Bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come” (1Tim 4:8). 

Wisdom does good to those around us, in imitation of God, even if they don’t appreciate it or remember it. But, we don’t exercise it for men to notice, or even because we trust in it, but because it honors the Lord for us to employ it, and to do others good by it. 

So, as we have repeatedly heard from Proverbs, the Scriptures urge us to pursue, get, and employ wisdom. The passage closes by reminding us that failure to do so means to live in that sinfulness (i.e. apart from the fear of the Lord) that can singlehandedly unravel much good, done by many wise people, over a long period of time.

The Lord give us to listen to His Word, and the wise words of those quiet ones who are full of His Word.

Who are some quiet, wise ones, to whose words you should be giving attention? How else are you working on growing and employing wisdom? To whom are you doing good by your wisdom? To Whom does his passage turn you, when your wisdom goes unnoticed or unremembered by others?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for when we have been the shouting fools, for when we have been the ones who destroyed much good, for when we have trusted in any of our abilities, or prioritized any of them above wisdom. We are exposed by this passage, but we thank You for Christ. His righteousness and wisdom have been perfect, and have been our own righteousness, and our own wisdom, through union with Him. Please make us to be more and more like Him, in these things, through our fellowship with Him, we ask in His name. Amen.

Suggested songs: ARP1 “How Blessed the Man” or TPH131B “Not Haughty Is My Heart”

2025.12.18 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 9:10–12

Read Ecclesiastes 9:10–12

Questions from the Scripture text: What might our hand find (Ecclesiastes 9:10)? In what manner should we do it? Why—what four things are not employed where? What does Solomon return and do in Ecclesiastes 9:11a? Who doesn’t necessarily win the race (verse 11b)? Who does not necessarily win the battle (verse 11c)? Who does not necessarily obtain provision (verse 11d)? Who does not necessarily accumulate wealth (verse 11e)? Who does not necessarily gain favor (verse 11f)? What two things happen to whom in verse 11g? What doesn’t a man know (Ecclesiastes 9:12a)? In what two ways (verse 12b and 12c) are who caught, at what time (verse 12d)? How does it come upon them (verse 12e)?

How must we live? Ecclesiastes 9:10–12 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must live in devotion unto, and dependence upon, the Lord. 

God’s providence gives you your life (cf. Ecclesiastes 9:9), the time and place at which you live (cf. Acts 17:26), and the occupations into which you come (Ecclesiastes 9:10a). Therefore, you must do everything with diligence and zeal as unto the Lord (verse 10b; cf. 1 Corinthians 10:31, Colossians 3:17, Colossians 3:23). 

Two things, in this passage, are helps unto this diligence and zeal: what you do know, and what you do not know. You do know that you are about to go to your grave (Ecclesiastes 9:10c). There, the usefulness of your labor, technique/device, knowledge, and wisdom, will have expired. So, use them before their (and your!) expiration date. Since you do not know when that expiration date is (Ecclesiastes 9:12a), you need to use all that God gives you, diligently and zealously, now! Otherwise, you will find that, like a fish or a bird that thought you were going to get something that you desired (verse 12b–c), you will be snapped up in your falsely blissful ignorance (verse 12e) at what seems to you like an evil time (verse 12d).

To use language from later in the book, if you do not, right now, remember the Lord in everything that you do (cf. Ecclesiastes 12:1a), then the days to come will be difficult/evil for you, indeed (cf. verse 12:1b).

But not only must you be devoted to the Lord in all that you do, you must also be dependent upon the Lord in all that you do. As you use what speed He has given you, you must not trust your speed (Ecclesiastes 9:11b, cf. 2 Samuel 2:18–23). As you use what strength He has given you, you must not trust your strength (Ecclesiastes 9:11c, cf. Judges 16). As you use what wisdom, understanding, and skill He has given you, you must not trust your wisdom, understanding, or skill (Ecclesiastes 9:11d, e, f). Solomon himself is one of the greatest examples of how poor one’s behavior and outcomes may be, despite maximizing all of these. 

Ultimately, we must remember that the Lord’s sovereign providence is determining every outcome (Ecclesiastes 9:11g). So, the most effective attribute on man’s part is the fear of the Lord. It is He Who has given us all of our abilities, capacities, possessions, and opportunities. So, fearing Him translates into employing them all, zealously, for His glory. But fearing Him also necessarily means not trusting any of these, or presuming upon any particular earthly outcome. Our joy must ultimately be in Him, and only secondarily in what He enables us to do, or whatever temporal outcomes He grants us.

What have your hands found to do in the providence of God? What abilities, capacities, possessions, and opportunities has He given you? To what extent are you employing them? How can you tell, from your life, what you are trusting in as you do so?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for how we have not done all things heartily, as unto You, or for the glory of Christ. We have often wasted time, ability, possessions, or opportunity. And then, forgive us, also, for when we have used what You have given us, but with the idea that we would obtain the outcome by how well we did. Give us to live in the fear of the Lord, both in how devoted our lives are, and also in how dependent our lives are. We thank You that Christ always did this perfectly. For His sake, please both forgive us, and make us to be like unto Him, by His Spirit, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP23B “The Lord’s My Shepherd” or TPH131B “Not Haughty Is My Heart”