Pastor’s Bible Reading Schedule:
Ecclesiastes 11-12
Saturday: Malachi 1-4
Sunday: Acts 19-20
The final two chapters of Ecclesiastes are often combined because the traditional chapter break tends to interrupt the flow of Solomon’s argument. I find that this is the case with many of the chapter breaks. It is important for us to remember, when reading our Bibles, that chapter divisions are helpful, but they are not inspired. As we have been learning on Wednesday evenings, the Book of Ecclesiastes addresses a wide array of issues. However, the theme of the book is, the genius of God… is ETERNITY. This earth is not what God intended for mankind when He created us. Some sections of Ecclesiastes address matters that are especially pertinent during certain seasons of life. This final section clearly speaks to all of us, but it has a compelling message to young people. If young people would apply the teachings of these final verses, they would save themselves from much trouble and live a life marked by wisdom.
It is imperative that young people use their younger years to develop an intimate walk with God. Chapter 12 is a call for young people to remember their Creator and it is not passive; it involves action. The intimacy with God and the convictions that can come during a person’s younger years will be a tremendous benefit when he becomes older. Getting older generally means more difficult circumstances on many fronts. In the grief class, I talked about “normal” changing over and over as we get older. The spiritual stability that comes from walking faithfully with God during the youthful years will help a person weather future challenges that will come as we get older. It’s hard to imagine a more significant truth for Christian teenagers to grasp than this one! However, it is definitely a truth that we should all apply!
Prayer Requests:
Personal
- Lord, please help me to never quit developing the intimate relationship that allows me to know you, love you, and serve you.
- Lord, please help me to set an example for young people that will motivate them to desire an intimate walk with you.
- Lord, please help me to draw closer to you as the circumstances of life get increasingly more difficult.
Political
- Representative Ronnie Peterson – District 34 – Ypsilanti
- Representative Laurie Pohutsky – District 19 – Livonia
- Senator Michael MacDonald – District 10 – Canton Twp.