Wee Can Know

The last chapter of Ecclesiastes, chapter 12, Solomon directs his thoughts toward the youth. Solomon has come to the end of his days and describes the decline of life figuratively and humorously in verses 1-7.

As an old man, Solomon realizes where the true place is to find meaning in life. He intentionally makes an effort to encourage the young to seek God in their youth. In verse 11 and 12 he said, The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one shepherd (God).  Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them.

Solomon was emphasizing the value of God’s wisdom describing it as a goad (a pointed stick used to drive Sheep – to keep them on the right path). The nail represents the security and steadfastness of God’s Word. God’s Word is what can keep us on the right path and keep our life secure and steadfast. He encouraged his son to cling to God’s wisdom. Solomon described how he sought diligently to find the right words, to help his son, youth, and others understand the importance of following God’s path (vs. 9-10).

Are you a parent, grandparent, or teacher? You can follow Solomon’s wise example in Ecclesiastes and Proverbs and take every opportunity to teach younger generations the importance of following God. Also, to encourage them to follow God early in life!

So what is the whole duty of mankind? Read Ecclesiastes 12, then play the trivia game below and you will find the Solomon’s answer! (This is a fun way to teach youth God’s Word too! )

I am not the grandparent in my story, but my grandparents were a huge part in my salvation. Neither of my parents actively followed Christ, but my grandparents taught me about Jesus at an early age and I would attend church with them from time to time.

When I was 8 years old, I went to a Vacation Bible School (VBS) at their church. After the VBS, I was at my grandparents’ home on the back porch/deck with my grandfather (Pawpaw). I don’t remember there being much of a conversation leading up to this, but I remember thinking my grandfather could help me accept Jesus into my heart. So, being the bossy granddaughter that I could be from time to time, I said, “Pawpaw, I want to ask Jesus into my heart and I want you to help me.”

He, obviously surprised and happy, gladly led me in prayer to accept Jesus that day and always talked about a dove landing on the deck right after the prayer that he felt was a “sign” from God that He had a special plan for my life. Both my grandparents told that story many times.

Both of my grandparents were firm believers and LOVED studying the Bible and worshipping (my grandfather played guitar and sang, my grandmother would harmonize with him). I learned the value in studying God’s Word through both of them, the patience and love Christ gives through both of them. I still cherish the Bibles my grandmother gave me or I gained after her passing that has notes all over almost every page.

I am so thankful for my grandparents and their influence in my life.

Note: The grandparents were right too! This “bossy” granddaughter is now serving on the mission field!

Pastor Dennis Watson of Celebration Church, New Orleans, shared this message regarding results of a recent Probe Survey regarding religious views and practices in 2020.